F&B incubator on the menu for Colworth Science Park
Pioneer Group in collaboration with Unilever is to create a 16,000 sq ft lab facility for food and drink start-ups at Colworth Science Park in Bedford.
The incubator space, branded Gastronomica, is due to open later in Q1 2025. It will provide microbiology and innovation suites, featuring centrifugation, imaging, chromatography and drying systems, and a utility room.
The shared lab facility on the ground floor of the Magniac building will offer flexible lease lengths to suit smaller companies and young businesses. Rents will be determined by the space taken.
Pioneer Group in collaboration with Unilever is to create a 16,000 sq ft lab facility for food and drink start-ups at Colworth Science Park in Bedford.
The incubator space, branded Gastronomica, is due to open later in Q1 2025. It will provide microbiology and innovation suites, featuring centrifugation, imaging, chromatography and drying systems, and a utility room.
The shared lab facility on the ground floor of the Magniac building will offer flexible lease lengths to suit smaller companies and young businesses. Rents will be determined by the space taken.
Colworth Science Park is home to one of Unilever’s global R&D innovation centres, as well as other businesses pioneering food and drink developments, including DSM-Firmenich, Symrise and IRCA Group.
Keith Purdie, commercial director at Colworth Science Park, said: “Gastronomica will provide a central UK hub for businesses looking to grow, test new food items and develop local supply chains.
“We are already exploring plans to install additional specialist equipment to support advanced food innovation, with input from industry partners and site users.”
Julie Merrick, leader of the Colworth Unilever R&D site, added: “This new facility will not only provide resources for start-ups but also foster collaboration and creativity among emerging and growing businesses. Together with Pioneer Group, we are creating a hub that will drive the future of food and drink innovation and broaden the eco-system right here at Colworth Science Park.”
