UCB, Roche, and IQVIA take lead in UK life sciences investment

Pharma giant UCB is to invest around £1 billion in the UK as part of a second life sciences sector deal with the UK government, with industry names such as Roche and IQVIA also committing to projects. The deals are part of the government’s second Life Sciences Sector Deal, with 10 companies investing in the UK and pledging to support healthcare innovation, and create high-paid, high-quality jobs as part of the government’s overarching industrial strategy.
In what was described as a vote of confidence in UK industry, Belgian pharma company UCB announced it is investing £1 billion, including a new state-of-the-art R&D facility. UCB already has an R&D base in Slough, Berkshire and the investment over the next five years will include £150-200 million to build a new research center nearby. The company’s operation in Slough began life as the UK biotech Celltech, which UCB bought in 2004. Further details will be announced if UCB finalizes its search for a suitable location and when contracts have been agreed.