Strong sector: Bio- and nanotechnology
Hessen is a world-leading producer of biotechnology solutions, generating 5.2 billion euros in revenue and employing almost 20,000 people. The region is a centre for research, discovery, development and production. It offers good prospects in a strong sector with challenging economic and research-oriented tasks.
Hessen has developed a first-class image as a location for biotechnology companies: Numerous research institutes, universities and private education centres create the perfect environment for around 225 Hessen-based bio-tech companies to develop new technologies and products.
Several companies from the fields of biotechnology, pharmaceuticals and healthcare are based in Marburg. Such companies include CSL Behring GmbH, one of the region’s major employers with the biggest production and research centre in the world. This is where the vaccination and diagnostics division of the Swiss company Novartis established the world’s first production facilities for a flu vaccine developed from cell cultures.
Working groups pave the way for multinational companies
Hessen has lots more big players: Fresenius has established its headquarters in Bad Homburg, Merck in Darmstadt and Stada in Bad Vilbel. Technological institutions like the Frankfurt Biotechnology Innovation Centre (FIZ) provide interdisciplinary networks and a comprehensive range of consulting services for companies from the life sciences sector to successfully implement their business ideas.
Around 80 working groups operate in the field of nanoscience and nanotechnology. They’re paving the way for young research firms and multinational companies like Evonik and Heraeus. Nanotechnology is the core business area for over 150 companies in Hessen and extremely important over 500 other companies in the surrounding areas.
Leading biotechnology companies in Hessen:
- Sanofi-Aventis
- Novartis
- B. Braun Melsungen
- Heraeus
- Stada
- Fresenius
- CSL Behring
- Merck
- Biotest
- BRAIN
- AbbVie