The laboratories will provide technical services such as formulation and prototype development, performance and application testing, chemical and product-performance analysis and custom blending for various dosage forms, including oral solid dose, semi-solid, liquid and topical. 

Designed for customers in life science markets, Univar said the facilities will enable it to offer greater value and responsiveness to market opportunities in areas such as pharmaceuticals, biopharmaceuticals, animal health, nutraceuticals and ophthalmic.

"Increasingly, pharmaceutical manufacturers are turning to Univar Solutions for innovation and technical support, plus insights into forthcoming trends and market dynamics. By establishing our pharmaceutical ingredient labs in centrally located, growing regions around the world, we have taken a truly globalized approach to supporting the market," said James Peterson, global vice president, pharmaceutical ingredients.

Univar has continued to build up its laboratory services this year. In March, it opened the Essen center, which includes a pilot plant along with the laboratories that are used for conceiving, testing, developing and launching new end-products that include hair care, toiletries, skin care, color cosmetics, tablet coatings, ointments, dishwashing formulations and building materials.

In February, Univar opened a full-service homecare and industrial cleaning laboratory at its center in Houston to help deliver next-generation products such as detergents, cleaners and disinfectants that perform better and are more environmentally friendly.

Prior to that, the company Univar opened a new Food Solution Center at The Hatchery Chicago. One of the largest nonprofit food and beverage incubators in North America, this is dedicated to helping local entrepreneurs build and grow successful businesses.

Author: Elaine Burridge, Freelance Journalist