Putting Moreton on the map: How our R&D site in the North-West of England is harnessing local investment to become a global hub for innovation
Our site in Moreton plays an integral role for Bristol Myers Squibb in the UK, leading in science & technology and driving a culture of excellence. The site specialises in product development - putting the “D” in “R&D”, focussing on the Design, Development and Distribution of medicines for clinical trials and ongoing support for commercial products around the globe.
Working & Investing in the North-West of England
In 2020, Bristol Myers Squibb set specific environmental sustainability goals, which aim to contribute to economic growth, social responsibility, and a healthy environment. Moreton has been leading the way to achieve these goals, by offering innovative solutions to energy and sustainability challenges. Crucial to achieving these goals has been our ability to work locally within the region.
In 2021, we invested $11.4M in the regeneration of an existing building at Moreton.1 Most of the original infrastructure was retained, and where required the construction material for the re-development was procured locally, further helping reduce our carbon footprint.1
2021 local construction material procurement:
- 70% within 15 miles from Moreton site
- 20% within 40 miles from Moreton site
- 10% within 40 miles from Moreton site
During the re-development of a building, which opened lasted year, all contractors working on its re-development were located within 40 miles of the site.1 The building achieved an Energy A+ rating and -32 net carbon zero, giving it the 4th best energy efficient commercial building in England and Wales, and reducing energy costs by £16.00 per m².1,2
Local Impact
In 2020, BMS’ total economic footprint to the UK economy was an estimated £1bn*.3 £375M (37%) of this was from outside of London and the South-East region, with the North-West region receiving the largest contribution.3 This meant that locally in the region, our economic contribution was £160M – 16% of our total UK footprint, with approximately 1,800 jobs.3
* Total economic footprint measured in gross value added (GVA)
Future Local Investment
We are committed to driving development of the UK’s Life Sciences sector, through our continued contribution to local partnerships and support for local communities. Currently, we are completing the final stage design ready for construction of a new building, which will house both laboratory and office spaces in a modern workspace with a focus on wellbeing. The aim is to achieve BREEAM Outstanding certification, which internationally only the top 1% of buildings achieve. For its creation we have partnered with construction company, and registered Charitable Trust, Eric Wright, to ensure we bring social value and improve lives within the local region during construction of the building and beyond. The project will also target 70% of its funding to local contracting companies, suppliers, and materials within a 40-mile radius of the site.4
Moreton is a pivotal site in our global Product Development Network, reflected in the ongoing investment laboratory and office space. The Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) credentials of these building projects are a critical part of our commitment to the North-West of England, bringing scientific excellence and investment in biopharmaceutical research and development, and ultimately delivering high-quality medicines to patients.
References
1 BMS internal data.
2 BMS Building 5 Energy performance certificate, November 2021.
3 BMS economic impact in the UK - EY report, April 2022.
4 BMS Moreton, Proposed Building 6 Sustainable Procurement Plan.
NO-GB-2300153
June 2023