Bio-tech and pharmaceutical

Devon is home to a large and fast-growing biotechnology sector. Over the last 10 years output has grown by nearly 220% making it the county’s fastest growing priority sector. The number of businesses has increased by a staggering 300% over the same period.

The sector is spread widely across the county, with particular concentrations around Barnstaple, Exeter and Plymouth and is supported by a growing pool of highly skilled labour.

Established businesses range from the manufacture of basic pharmaceuticals, pharmaceutical preparations and research, to cutting edge developments in natural sciences and engineering. Major companies located in the county include Actavis and Perrigo, both based in North Devon and AstraZeneca based in Brixham.

The whole of the south west is a major centre for biomedical research with internationally recognised expertise, particularly in Devon. There are biomedical research centres at the Universities of Exeter and Plymouth and large teaching hospitals in the county. Both universities cover diverse portfolios of biomedical research, providing the academic support necessary to meet the needs of the sector and a pool of highly skilled professionals. The Peninsula College of Medicine and Dentistry (Universities of Exeter & Plymouth) provides high-quality clinical education and research that contributes significantly to the health, wellbeing and wealth creation within the county and beyond. Special support is available for biomedical innovation through the £2.2m South West i-nets programme.

Bio-tech and pharmaceutical business distribution.