Even the boot-strappers of the bunch aim to make significant investments in the coming year in everything from computers and office space to new product launches and crucial research and development.

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They fund research projects and new product development.

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It will build a direct relationship with employees, define new segments, and develop skills in areas such as market research and product development.

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Wallstrip formed the heart of a new research and development lab looking to develop the next "it" product.

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Tim Fritzley of Intune Networks said the Belfast research and development centre would "develop key subsystems of our new product line".

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The new facility is its largest center for cookie research and development in Asia, and its output will allow Kraft to create new product platforms tailored to suit local tastes.

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Navin Geria, vice president of research and development for the Spa Dermaceutical Products Group, a New Jersey-based consumer product development company that specializes in custom development of anti-aging skincare and products for dermatologists and spa chains, says that a new range of anti-aging technology called cosmeceuticals (cosmetics that companies says possess drug-like affects) will go a step further.

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