In 1993, Boehringer Ingelheim & BioWhittaker decided to create a new Biotech site in Verviers (Belgium-Wallonia) mainly because of its central location in Europe. Since 2017, after the acquisition of the Biosciences division by the Swiss group Lonza, the Verviers site has continuously grown at a two digits rate. Main activities on site are cell culture media production and central distribution platform for both Europe and Asia. 

The site location in Wallonia definitely represents a very competitive advantage, very much acknowledged by the Lonza Headquarters in Basel.
A nearby logistic hub in Liège, the proximity to the German and Dutch borders and cities (Maestricht, Aachen, Koeln) and a large pool of available multi-lingual talents continuously contribute to the development of the activities on site.

Additionally, regional authorities are focusing to develop Biotech and Logistics poles (amongst others) and to support and develop small (start-up) and middle sizes companies in all filed of activities. Fiscal incentives for R&D and cash grants are both available. This contributes to the development and sustainability of economic activities in the Walloon region.

Today, the acknowledged dynamic and professionalism of the Lonza Verviers teams, and the a.m. positive context’s elements, contribute to the development of the site: within 8 months last, 60 additional employees were hired and ongoing investments are at study phase. No doubt, Lonza Verviers is and will continue to be a strong contributor to the Walloon region development.