Croda opens new biotechnology R&D labs at Sci-Tech Daresbury
The investment reinforces Croda’s position at the forefront of biotechnology innovation and reflects its commitment to expanding advanced research capabilities in the UK.
UK – Croda International has opened new biotechnology research and development laboratories at Sci‑Tech Daresbury in the Liverpool City Region, designating the site as its global center for biotechnology research and one of the company’s most important platforms for future growth.
The facility was formally inaugurated by Parliamentary Under‑Secretary of State and Minister for Reindustrialization Blair McDougall MP, alongside Steve Rotheram, Mayor of the Liverpool City Region, and senior representatives from business and academia.
The new laboratories will support the development of next‑generation ingredients and technologies for leading consumer and life sciences brands and help move scientific breakthroughs from the lab to commercial reality.
Located within Sci‑Tech Daresbury, one of the UK’s leading science and innovation campuses, the center is intended to strengthen collaboration between industry, academia and government to accelerate the development and commercialization of biotechnology innovations.
Minister for Reindustrialization, Blair McDougall MP, who opened the facility, said: “Croda’s expansion here in Daresbury is a perfect example of what our Modern Industrial Strategy is designed to support: a global center of biotech excellence, backing skilled local jobs and keeping Britain at the cutting edge of innovation.
“This new facility will help turn world-class British science into exports for global markets, helping attract investment and create high-value jobs across the North West while strengthening the UK’s position as a global leader in biotechnology.”
The facility is expected to support future job creation both at Sci‑Tech Daresbury and across Croda’s four other UK locations, deepen partnerships with academic and industry collaborators, and speed the commercialization of biotechnology innovations for global markets.
One example of work already emerging from the site is KeraBio™ K31, a biotechnology‑derived keratin ingredient designed to help repair damaged hair, which was developed by Croda scientists at Daresbury and is now being commercialised with customers worldwide as an illustration of how UK science can be translated into premium consumer hair care solutions.
Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram called Croda’s decision to establish its global biotechnology research center in the Liverpool City Region a powerful vote of confidence in the area’s science base, skilled workforce and wider innovation ecosystem.
He linked the move to the region’s ambitious target to invest 5% of its GVA in research and development by 2030, arguing that attracting globally ambitious businesses like Croda will be vital to achieving it.
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