Marking the opening of 3M’s new $150 million, 470,000-square-foot design center, the graphic films manufacturer held a celebratory ceremony on Friday, March 11, at 3M's St. Paul, Minnesota, headquarters.

The new research and development lab is designed to encourage collaboration and technology sharing across all aspects of the vast global corporation, which has its hands in literally thousands of products.

When asked how the new facility relates specifically to the commercial graphics business of the company, spokeswoman Fanna Haile-Selassie told Sign & Digital Graphics last fall, “The 3M Design team will continue to collaborate with colleagues in our R&D community and relevant business functions (e.g., marketing, sales, etc.) to bring new solutions forward in the wraps market. For example, graphic designers provide guidance on trends assessment for colors, textures, finishes, etc. to drive product development. Resources … such as a Fast Prototyping Lab and Trends & Color/Material Space will enhance further creative opportunities for inspiration, concept validation, and design/business direction in the commercial solutions market.”