The Challenges of Driving Innovation and Growth in Life Sciences Manufacturing.

The North West of England is recognised as one of the cornerstones of the UK’s life sciences sector, hosting an array of global pharmaceutical and contract development and manufacturing organisations (CDMOs). Home to industry-leaders such as AstraZeneca, CSL Sequirus, and Croda, the region continues to attract significant investments, evidenced by recent commitments from Pharmaron, Ipsen, and Bristol Myers Squibb. This enduring strength positions the North West as a hub of national significance for life sciences manufacturing.

Key to this strength is the region’s continued reputation to create spaces and places that help sustain the industry’s growth here. From Manchester’s Oxford Road Corridor to Liverpool’s Knowledge Quarter, the North West is now home to a range of locations designed to help facilitate world-class outcomes in the life sciences sector.

A relative newcomer to this growing eco-system is MIX MANCHESTER, a science, innovation, and manufacturing campus located next to Manchester Airport where occupiers have the flexibility to bring their ideas to life across 2M sq ft of advanced manufacturing, R&D, laboratory, and office space.

But, as the market well knows, it takes more than just the right quality and scale of property to help to sustain a competitive edge and meet evolving industry demands. Chris Rumsey, director at MIX MANCHESTER, acknowledges that, beyond their offer, the sector must continue to address three pivotal challenges: attracting and retaining talent, advancing sustainability, and embracing digital transformation.

Attracting and Retaining Talent in a Competitive Market

Talent is the lifeblood of innovation and operational excellence. As the life sciences sector grows, the demand for skilled professionals—ranging from technical apprentices through experienced managers to digital transformation experts—is outpacing supply. The North West’s established pharma manufacturing ecosystem and educational infrastructure, including the University of Manchester, University of Liverpool and Manchester Metropolitan University offer advantages, but targeted efforts are essential to compete with global life sciences clusters.

MIX MANCHESTER, a cutting-edge development tailored to science and innovation manufacturing, is positioned to support this goal. With proximity to Wythenshawe and plans for partnerships on technical courses and apprenticeships, the scheme is set to unlock a local talent pool. Furthermore, its connectivity to Manchester’s Oxford Road R&D corridor including universities, the city centre and Cheshire East ensures companies can tap into both the UK’s largest life science talent pool outside the Golden Triangle and largest digital talent pool outside London.

Advancing Sustainability: A Business Imperative

Sustainability is no longer optional for life science businesses, in particular biomanufacturing. Clients and investors increasingly demand environmentally responsible practices, from reducing energy consumption to achieving carbon neutrality. Recognising this, developments like MIX MANCHESTER are committed to real estate solutions with industry-leading sustainability credentials, enabling occupiers to align with their environmental agendas.

In addition, the North West’s innovation ecosystem—anchored by initiatives such as the Industrial Biotechnology Innovation Catalyst, Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre, and Liverpool’s Materials Innovation Factory—provides the industry with resources to embed both digital and sustainable solutions into their operations.

Embracing Digitalisation and Automation

Digital transformation is reshaping the life sciences sector, offering opportunities to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality. Yet, this shift requires advanced infrastructure and a workforce adept in leveraging digital tools. MIX MANCHESTER addresses this challenge by offering a curated environment that fosters collaboration among life sciences, technology, and innovation stakeholders.

The North West’s robust digital infrastructure and transport links, including Manchester Airport’s global connectivity, further strengthen the region’s attractiveness. These attributes make it easier for companies to integrate digital innovations while accessing a global talent pool and client base.

The Unique Proposition of MIX Manchester

MIX MANCHESTER stands apart as one of the only schemes nationally designed specifically for life sciences, biomanufacturing and CDMOs. Its focus on creating a high-quality, coordinated ecosystem positions it as a key enabler in addressing the sector’s challenges. By combining tailored property solutions at scale, sustainability-driven design, and unparalleled connectivity, MIX MANCHESTER is more than a real estate proposition—it’s a catalyst for innovation and growth in the North West’s life sciences, bio manufacturing, digital and tech and clean technology economies.

As the UK government’s £520m Life Science Innovative Manufacturing Fund underscores its commitment to this critical industry, developments like MIX MANCHESTER will ensure the region remains a beacon of opportunity for global pharma and CDMOs. The North West’s evolution as a life sciences powerhouse is not just a regional success story but a model for fostering international sustainable, innovation-driven growth in manufacturing.

Learn more about MIX Manchester by visiting their website.

Representatives from MIX Manchester will be available to meet at UKREiiF, on the Manchester Stand, The Canary.