The UK food-supply chain is set to benefit from a major development in laboratory testing. On April 7, Eurofins signed an agreement to purchase the whole of the share capital of Wolverhampton-based Direct Laboratory Services Ltd.

By acquiring Direct Laboratories, Eurofins has significantly expanded its testing services to the industry at the premium quality end of the market in the UK and in particular strengthens its leading position in pesticide analysis.

Peter Bassett, managing director of Direct Laboratories said the decision to join Eurofins was fuelled by the desire to grow the company at a faster pace than was possible alone.

“Joining Eurofins marks the beginning of a very exciting time for the company, our employees and our customers,” he said. “The combination of Direct Laboratories’ reputation for research, quality testing and customer service throughout the food supply chain, together with Eurofins’ infrastructure of laboratories in the UK, international resources and investment opportunities, will allow us to provide an even better service to our customers. Our staff will benefit from wider career development opportunities and increased investment in facilities and infrastructure. Customers of Direct Laboratories will continue to receive the personal, professional service that they have come to rely on and trust, with the added benefit of access to Eurofins’ international network of laboratory and IT facilities.”

Dr Gilles Martin, Eurofins Scientific’s ceo, commented: “At Eurofins Scientific we are committed to supporting our clients’ objectives of ensuring that their products reach the best possible quality and safety levels in all the markets in which they operate. As an organisation with a reputation for innovation, excellent quality and customer service, Direct Laboratories fits perfectly into the Eurofins portfolio. This acquisition allows the group to gain substantial market share in the UK by winning new clients from both private and government sectors and to expand its talent pool and expertise to better meet its clients’ objectives.”

Eurofins Scientific is a life sciences company operating internationally to provide a comprehensive range of analytical support services drawing on the latest developments in biotechnology. It specialises in delivering analytical testing services.

Direct Laboratories has been providing reliable testing and research services since August 2002, when a management buyout led to the creation of the commercial laboratory company. It has customers throughout the entire food chain.

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