Most people understand how DNA testing has had such a positive affect on people’s lives and that mapping the human genome is very important, but few know the company behind the technology and how it continues to lead the world in this and other new developments in the biotechnology sector. Warrington has been part of that success story since 1987 when Applied Biosystems in California needed a European presence and found the skills it needed in Warrington. Beginning life as a small team opposite one of the many Warrington golf clubs, the organisation grew to 100 in Birchwood Science Park in 1990, and manufacturing commenced in earnest with 30 employees and the purchase of Kingsland Grange nearby.

By 1995 a further site near the golf club was in use, and after doubling office- and home-based employees to 100 and 130 respectively in 2001, it became clear an office rationalisation exercise was needed.