The new facility is expected to support future job creation, strengthen collaboration with academic and industry partners, and accelerate biotechnology innovations.

Croda International has opened its new global centre for biotechnology research at Sci-Tech Daresbury, the UK’s leading science and innovation campus. 

The new laboratories will support the development of next-generation ingredients and technologies to help bring scientific breakthroughs from laboratory to commercial reality for some of the world’s leading consumer and lifestyle brands.

An example of the work currently being developed at Sci-Tech Daresbury is KeraBio K31, a biotechnology-derived keratin ingredient designed to help repair damaged hair.

This has been developed by Croda scientists at the facility and is now being commercialised with customers globally. KeraBio K31 demonstrates how UK science can be translated into innovative consumer products that address growing demand for premium haircare solutions, the company said.

Strength of UK’s science base was key

“Biotechnology will play an increasingly important role in how we deliver sustainable innovation for our customers and create long-term value,” said Steve Foots, Croda’s chief executive. “We had opportunities to locate this facility in several countries around the world but chose the UK because of the strength of its science base, talent and innovation ecosystem.”

He added that much of the discussion around the European chemicals sector currently focuses on industrial challenges and lack of opportunities. “Croda’s investment highlights the continued opportunities for innovative companies to compete globally through intellectual property, advanced science and R&D-led growth,” Foots said.

Sci-Tech Daresbury is located in the Liverpool City Region, and Croda’s decision to establish its global research centre there speaks volumes, the local mayor said.

“Our region is home to a world-class cluster of science-led companies that are driving growth, creating high-value jobs and developing solutions that can make a real difference to people’s lives,” said Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, Steve Rotherham. “Croda’s decision to establish its global biotechnology research centre in the Liverpool City Region is a powerful vote of confidence in our science base, our skilled workforce and our wider innovation ecosystem.”

An ambitious target to invest 5% of GVA in research and development by 2030 has been set, he added, and attracting businesses like Croda “will be vital to achieving it”.