Ajinomoto North America opened its Customer Application Center in suburban Chicago.  Officials say the new site in Itasca, Ill., will serve as “a hub of innovation, allowing Ajinomoto to transfer unique, cutting-edge technologies developed in the company’s central research and development facilities in ways that meet the diverse market tastes and demands of the North American market.” Ajinomoto is a global manufacturer and supplier of high-quality seasonings and amino acid technologies for foods and beverages. “Our new facility in Illinois represents an important step forward in Ajinomoto’s global strategy to create regional technology centers that adapt our products and create synergy with local tastes and food trends,” said Takashi Nagamachi, corporate senior vice president, Ajinomoto Co. Inc.—Ajinomoto North America Inc., www.ajinomoto-usa.com