Leatherhead Food Research receives £9m investment in new headquarters

The substantial freehold property, “Great Burgh”, including nine acres of grounds and a spectacular Grade II listed building, has been purchased by Leatherhead’s parent, Science Group plc, and will form a new South-of-London hub for the Group, complementing the existing North-of-London R&D centre in Harston, Cambridge. This announcement comes hot on the heels of Leatherhead’s acquisition by Science Group plc in September and represents a £9m ($15 million) investment in Leatherhead by its new owners to establish a world-leading food and drink R&D centre.

“We are delighted to have found Great Burgh and excited about the future for Leatherhead. The property not only has extensive, modern office space but also perfect areas for new laboratory facilities, a state-of-the-art consumer sensory centre and an unparalleled conference and training centre in the original building,” comments Chris Wells, Managing Director, Leatherhead. “The investment by Science Group is fantastic news for our Members, employees and customers and reflects the focus on innovation that sets Leatherhead apart. The new facilities at Great Burgh will enable us to continue to provide market leading services to the food and drink industry.”

Through its history, Great Burgh has provided the laboratory and R&D facilities for Distillers Group, BP and Beecham, becoming the Global HQ of the R&D operations for Smith Klein Beecham Pharmaceuticals. Comprising approximately 50,000 sq ft of space, Great Burgh has benefited from a substantial investment in its infrastructure and facilities and now provides an ideal base and an incredible opportunity for the Science Group’s South-of-London operations.

Leatherhead’s operations will start to relocate to Great Burgh in January 2016 and it is anticipated that all activities will have been transferred by the middle of 2016.

-  Ends -

Press enquiries:
Fiona McPherson
Head of Marketing, Leatherhead Food Research
T: +44 1372 822395
E: [email protected]

Melissa Shone
Director of Marketing, Science Group plc
T: +44 1223 875205
E: [email protected]