Life science firm checks in at Hexagon Tower

A GLOBAL supplier to the pharma and biotech markets has bolstered its Manchester presence with a new research and development laboratory at Hexagon Tower.

Multi-national life science firm Lonza has expanded with a 5,250sq ft acquisition at the North Manchester science park to launch its Global Centre of Hair Care Technology, which researches and develops chemical products for the personal care industry.

Lonza established its Hair Care Centre at Hexagon Tower in 2015, acquiring an initial 2,275sq ft for new offices and laboratory space.

The latest expansion for the global science business follows the appointment of Dr Jamie Hawkes FRSC to the role of Global Head of Hair Care Technology for its personal care business.

Dr Jamie Hawkes said: “The addition of this centre to Lonza’s R&D footprint allows us to leverage our fundamental understanding of the properties of hair and generate robust data packages that will strengthen the benefits of the current hair care portfolio, as well as create new product developments.”

The science park has seen a number of high-profile and SME tenants significantly expand their presence. Global quality solutions provider Intertek took out 10,500sq ft to test bio-medical products, while multi-national specialty chemicals developer Lubrizol extended by 2,539sq ft.

Chemical company SmartKem, which manufactures semiconductors for applications including flexible digital displays and electronics, also expanded by 5,036 sq ft.

Michael Cripps, BEST Network operations and finance controller, said: “We are delighted that Lonza has decided to extend its home at Hexagon Tower and grow its hair care base.

“It is a vote of confidence in the region to see so many science and technology firms choose to set up or grow their operations – and helps to ensure Manchester is kept at the forefront of innovation.”

Built by Imperial Chemical Industries in 1973, the iconic Richard Seifert designed Hexagon Tower is home to 15 companies working largely in the chemical and bio-technology industries.