RIS Consumer Engagement Labs

We experienced this kind of consumer engagement for the first time. It was a great opportunity to effectively address choices for new product development. Also, human contact during the workshop was a very grateful and pleasant aspect of the project. Another benefit is the rationalisation of our new product development process with a precise plan of action and timeline. Often new products are launched without following these procedures, so the CEL project can be a model for future activities of the company.

It’s something that has been done for the first time in Bulgaria. For me personally, it was a great experience. And for my university, it was very useful. Firstly, because we got acquainted with this great methodology. Then because I’m really fond of the EIT activities. And finally, it’s the first time we have had this connection between the university, business, and consumers.

Co-creation reshaped our initial product vision by grounding it in real consumer perception. It proved that internal R&D alone can be too subjective, while well-designed workshops provide insights that truly guide development.

The project transformed how we view consumer panels. We didn’t just gather opinions – we built a collaborative engine that accelerated our transition from insight to physical prototype. CEL methodology elevates co-creation from simple feedback to rigorous collaborative design.

Co-creation was a new and eye-opening experience for us. We still refer back to the consumer insights we gained during the process, and they actively shape how we design new products today. It changed the way we think about product development – making consumers’ perspective a lasting part of our decision-making.

Applying the CEL co-creation methodology showed me that every participant can be an innovator, even if they are not aware of it at first. Once they realise that their ideas matter, they often become surprised, encouraged, and proud to contribute.

Working directly with consumers is a great way to understand their needs. When looking to create something innovative, it poses a bit of a challenge due to the lack of knowledge or understanding of the industry. That can be managed by thoroughly examining ideas and brainstorming them with industry professionals.

The uniqueness of CEL lies in meaningfully integrating consumers, scientists, and food producers into one co-creation process, making innovation more relevant, collaborative, and impactful. The most insightful aspect was the “from consumers for consumers” approach when consumers actively co-created product ideas. Seeing consumers take ownership of innovation made the process more authentic and truly user-driven. 

Workshops with consumers reinforced our R&D department’s product decisions that were being made in parallel. Additionally, joint co-creation with consumers allowed us to understand even better and in greater detail the needs and expectations of our consumers.

Working at the intersection of academia and industry, the CEL framework helped us turn consumer insights into actionable outcomes. These co-creation workshops proved that structured engagement effectively transforms diverse opinions into innovation.

Developing this product through co-creation showed us the true value of working directly with consumers. Their creativity and insights challenged our initial assumptions and led to a more innovative, functional product aligned with real needs.

Facilitating the CEL workshops within our Kitchen Lab as a living lab showed us how consumers can actively shape innovation when given the right tools. The methodology enabled us to translate diverse insights into concrete product ideas with real market potential.

Working with consumers revealed how everyday challenges, such as improving sleep quality, can drive innovation. The CEL approach helped us transform these insights into structured, actionable research outcomes.