Gastronomica food incubator plans unveiled

A ‘pioneering’ food and drink incubator is set to revolutionise the industry from its base at Colworth Science Park in Bedford.

Named ‘Gastronomica’, the 16,000sq ft facility is spearheaded by Pioneer Group in collaboration with Unilever. 

Scheduled to open in early 2025, the incubator will transform the Magniac building into a “vibrant hub” for innovative food and beverage businesses, offering shared labs equipped with high-tech systems donated by Unilever.

The space will feature microbiology and innovation suites with centrifugation, chromatography and imaging systems to support pioneering start-ups.

Julie Merrick, Colworth Unilever R&D site leader, said: “We are excited to support the launch of Gastronomica, a pioneering venture that embodies our commitment to innovation in the food and drink sector. 

“This new facility will not only provide excellent resources for start-ups but also foster collaboration and creativity among emerging and growing businesses. 

“Together with Pioneer Group, we are creating a vibrant hub that will drive the future of food and drink innovation and broaden the eco-system right here at Colworth Science Park.”

Keith Purdie, commercial director at Colworth Science Park, added: “We are thrilled to be unveiling our plans for Pioneer’s first ever specialist incubator in food and drink. 

“Gastronomica will bolster Colworth Science Park’s position as the top location for new and growing food and agri-tech businesses, which all benefit from being in the same community as Unilever - one of the world’s largest consumer goods companies.  

“The facility provides the ideal opportunity for food and drink start-ups to engage with Unilever, with the potential to become part of their supply chain, as well as benefit from our close links with Cranfield University and the University of Northampton and access to the Midlands Food Alliance.”

Gastronomica also aims to create a as it aims to create a “collaborative ecosystem” though industry-led workshops, sensory demos and thought leadership events.

Keith added: “We plan to award ambitious businesses, innovators and entrepreneurs with prizes of recognition, tenancy, mentoring, incubation and investment. 

“It is an exciting time to be innovating in this sector and we encourage all food and beverage start-ups and entrepreneurs to come and explore what Gastronomica has to offer.”

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