HORIBA UK Limited
A leading life sciences business in West Northants
HORIBA UK Limited is part of the global HORIBA Group, a renowned precision instruments systems company. They deliver cutting-edge measurement and analysis solutions for applications in the Energy & Environment, Bio & Healthcare, and Materials & Semiconductor sectors. Founded in 1953 in Kyoto, Japan, HORIBA has consistently contributed to social progress and the achievement of a sustainable future through technological advancements. Their mission is to explore innovative measurement and analysis solutions that lead to significant discoveries and enable breakthroughs for a sustainable society. In the UK, HORIBA employs around 850 people across multiple locations and generates a turnover exceeding £150 million.
Growth and Development: HORIBA established its first UK operations in 1977 in Brackmills, Northampton. Due to increasing business demand, the company relocated to a larger facility in Moulton Park, Northampton, in 1992. Initially serving the automotive and environmentally regulated industries, HORIBA has since expanded its technological capabilities through acquisitions to support both industry and academia. In 2017, HORIBA UK consolidated its operations in Moulton Park, establishing itself as a centre for the design, development, and manufacture of bespoke solutions for the Energy & Environment, Bio & Healthcare, and Materials & Semiconductor sectors. The company also established a material analysis applications laboratory to support customers in advancing their technologies.
Future Growth Plans: HORIBA is committed to continuous business improvements and investment in its people to deliver value to both customers and society. Guided by its Mid-Long Term Management Plan, the HORIBA Group aims to achieve net sales of 450 billion yen (£2.4 billion), operating income of 80 billion yen (£420 million), and ROE of 12% by 2028. HORIBA UK has ambitious plans to double its business within five years by targeting the group’s market sectors. Key goals include investing in people through training and support, reducing environmental impact, and contributing to the community through charitable giving and volunteering.
Why West Northants is Ideal for HORIBA: West Northants was chosen by the company’s founder, Dr. Masao Horiba, for its central location. The proximity to the UK’s automotive industry and high-tech industries for bio and health and materials technology, combined with a large pool of bright talent and excellent road links, makes it an ideal location for HORIBA.
Unique Philosophy and Community Engagement: HORIBA’s unique “Joy & Fun” philosophy, established in 1978 by its late founder Dr. Masao Horiba, embodies the belief that finding meaning and purpose at work leads to happy and fulfilling lives and one-of-a-kind innovations. HORIBA’s mission is to shape the future through measurement and analytical solutions, built on authentic excellence and diversity while embracing the vision of “Joy & Fun For All.” Beyond investing in its people and technology, HORIBA actively supports local communities through charitable giving, STEM engagement with young people, and promoting inclusivity in the UK’s science community via scholarships, bursaries, PhD studentships, and grants.
HORIBA UK Limited exemplifies a thriving life sciences business in West Northants, driving innovation and contributing to a sustainable future.