Life Sciences sector

In recent years the Life Sciences sector in Wales has grown over 19%. The Sector is diverse, research-driven and global with its characteristics constantly changing as new sub-sectors emerge and develop.

What industries does the Life Sciences sector include?

The sector includes:

• Pharmaceutical,
• Biotechnology, and,
• Medical technology businesses, with wide ranging activities including research, testing, manufacture and the provision of specialist services.

The operational strengths in Wales cover a range of value added medical and scientific processes and technologies, products and development activities. These include Pharmaceutical and biotechnology, diagnostic and medical devices, agri and industrial technology, from blue chip to Small to Medium Sized Enterprises (SMEs)

Companies operating in Wales

Science Anchor Companies

• Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics (diagnostics) - Gwynedd
• Biomet UK (medical devices) - Bridgend
• Norgine Ltd (pharmaceuticals) - Caerphilly
• GE Healthcare (pharmaceuticals) - Cardiff
• Penn Pharmaceuticals (pharmaceuticals) – Blaenau Gwent

Regionally Important Life Sciences Companies

• Convatec Ltd (wound healing) – Tredegar
• Convatec Ltd (manufacturing) – Deeside
• Nice-Pak (biotechnology) – Flint
• BTG (pharmaceuticals) – Ceredigion

Although few companies have their Research and Development headquarters in Wales, a significant number undertake scientific development activities locally making use of the strong collaborative links that exist between academia, industry, clinicians and government.

What support is available?

We offer a range of support for the sector. To find out more visit our business.wales.gov.uk website. (External link)