CuliNEX joins JPG Resources to accelerate clean-label, plant-based product innovation

U.S.A. – JPG Resources, food-industry consultants and innovator, has acquired CuliNEX, a Seattle-based innovation group specializing in product development. 

Known for its expertise in clean-label and plant-based formulations, CuliNEX will continue operating from its headquarters, supporting both existing and new clients. 

The acquisition strengthens JPG’s West Coast presence and expands its capacity to deliver rapid prototyping, culinary innovation, and technical rigor through the practice of Culinology®.

Jeff Grogg, Founder and CEO of JPG Resources, said, “With the power of CCDI strategic vision and CuliNEX’s rapid prototyping ability, JPG is now even stronger and presents the most comprehensive approach to food and beverage innovation anywhere.”

Founded in 2009, JPG Resources combines strategic insight, product development, culinary expertise, and supply chain execution to support brands from startup through global scale. 

Grogg previously led Kellogg’s Health and Wellness research and development team, including Kashi, and has built JPG into a 70-member firm with a proven track record of launching thousands of SKUs. 

JPG operates creative development centers in Battle Creek, MI; Brooklyn, NY; San Francisco, CA; and Seattle, WA, enabling coast-to-coast client support and seamless integration of culinary, technical, and commercial expertise.

CuliNEX brings decades of experience in clean-label and plant-forward formulations, complementing JPG’s existing capabilities. 

The acquisition follows JPG’s 2024 purchase of CCDI (The Center for Culinary Development and Innovation), a strategic innovation group known for leveraging the Chef’s Council®, a network of leading culinary professionals driving restaurant and consumer trends. 

By integrating CuliNEX’s rapid prototyping and culinary creativity with CCDI’s strategic insight, JPG now offers brands a fully comprehensive approach to product development, commercialization, and trend-driven innovation.

Mark Crowell, Founder of CuliNEX, commented, “JPG is the perfect partner for us, as they will allow us to expand both our reach and service offering, while remaining true to our mission of the last 20 years, nourishing a brighter future through food innovation.”

With this expanded portfolio, JPG Resources strengthens its position as a trusted partner for emerging and global brands alike. 

The acquisition enhances its ability to combine creativity, technical excellence, and business-focused strategy to develop innovative food and beverage products, particularly in clean-label, plant-based, and trend-forward categories, while providing robust support across product ideation, prototyping, and market-ready commercialization.

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