Plant-based food producer lays down new roots at York Biotech Campus

A plant-based food producer has chosen a growing biotech site in Yorkshire as its new base.

Plant & Bean is set to join York Biotech Campus to expand its research and development (R&D) capabilities.

Created by Brecks’ Meat-Free Division and NR Instant PLC, Plant & Bean is a new venture which aims to make plant-based food more affordable.

The space that the company has taken comprises three custom laboratories, each serving a different purpose in the lifecycle of product development, as well as including office space for its R&D and regulatory teams.

James Hirst, CEO at Plant & Bean, commented: “We’re delighted with our new space onsite at York Biotech Campus. Moving to York Biotech Campus offered us a great opportunity to continue to build our local networks in Yorkshire, working amongst some of the brightest companies in biotechnology.

“The campus is going to provide a great base for us moving forward, as we look to continue to grow. We know there is room for us to scale our operations where needed and a great onsite team to help us when we do so.

“We’re looking forward to making the most of the conference centre, when meeting in groups is safe, as we’d love to bring our stakeholders together on this beautiful campus.”

Liz Cashon, innovation campus manager at York Biotech Campus, added: “We’ve loved working with the Plant & Bean team to create this innovative R&D space and move them into their all new Covid-secure work environment.

“Welcoming a company such as Plant & Bean to the site is a great endorsement for the growing influence of the site.

“With a collaborative approach to its work and a desire to work with local Yorkshire stakeholders, we know Plant & Bean is going to be a great addition to the campus and we look forward to working closely with them to support their ongoing growth plans.”