Inkjet technology company Xaar has opened new premises at Nottingham Science Park, citing talented graduates and global transport links in the region as part of Nottingham’s appeal.
The firm – which operates globally with headquarters in Cambridge and a factory in Huntington – has moved its 3D business into units 5 and 6 of the William Lee Buildings, securing 5,396 square ft of space, in a deal secured by Innes England.
The move to Nottingham Science Park is a pivotal part of the company’s growth plans as the company seeks to increase its annual revenue from £100m in 2016 to over £200m by 2020.
Neil Hopkinson, director of 3D printing for Xaar, explained why Nottingham was the ideal location for Xaar’s next stage of growth.
“3D is an important part of Xaar’s growth strategy. When considering a site for this part of our business we were keen to find an ideal location close to emerging talent. Universities in the region are training undergraduates in 3D printing, design and manufacturing, so Nottingham Science Park presented a big opportunity for us to tap into that group,” he said.
“We’ve invested heavily in renovating the new premises and look forward to working with more businesses across the Midlands as we begin to establish ourselves in this new market. It’s really exciting to have a presence in Nottingham where many businesses are at the forefront of 3D printing practices.”
Laura Jardine, surveyor at Innes England, said: “Companies like Xaar are exactly the type of businesses we want to be welcoming at Nottingham Science Park. I’m pleased to have secured a long-term lease on behalf of Nottingham City Council and I’m confident the firm will benefit from the fantastic transport links and supply of graduates on offer here.
“Xaar now occupies units 5 and 6 of William Lee Buildings which has eight units in total. Units 3 and 4 are still available offering 2,200 – 5,512 square ft of commercial space for similar businesses and we are currently negotiating another offer on unit 8.”
Councillor Jon Collins, leader of the city council and portfolio holder for strategic regeneration, said: “Xaar’s move to Nottingham is a welcome one and shows that Nottingham’s investment in its infrastructure, students and facilities for growing companies is reaping rewards. Invest in Nottingham have done a great job of showing Xaar what we have to offer as a city and that they’ll be in good company here, now and in the future.
“The units at Nottingham Science Park are already tenanted with some of the most pioneering companies in the region, and attracting an ambitious company like Xaar exemplifies what we’re aspiring to as a city – a centre for sciences, innovation and growth.”
