As one of the eight IS-8 priority sectors under the UK Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy 2025, the Life Sciences sector, led by some of the most innovative Life Sciences Companies UK has to offer, plays a central role in advancing healthcare innovation, biotechnology research, and advanced manufacturing. It brings together businesses developing pharmaceuticals, medical technologies, diagnostics, and digital health solutions that enhance quality of life while strengthening the UK economy.
The sector integrates biopharmaceuticals (BioPharma), medical technologies (MedTech), and digital health, positioning the UK as a global leader in scientific discovery, R&D investment, and high-value exports.
What Is the Life Sciences Sector?
The Life Sciences sector includes businesses involved in:
- Developing or producing pharmaceutical products.
- Designing and manufacturing medical and dental instruments, equipment, and consumables.
- Advancing biotechnology and research-based innovation.
- Producing digital health and diagnostic technologies.
It’s a highly interconnected ecosystem linking universities, R&D organisations, NHS partnerships, and private industry, enabling rapid translation of research into real-world healthcare solutions.
Frontier Industries in the UK Life Sciences Sector
| Frontier Industry | Why It’s Important |
| BioPharma | Focuses on developing and manufacturing pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and biologics to support healthcare resilience and innovation. |
| MedTech | Encompasses medical technology development, from surgical tools to hospital systems and digital health products, enhancing patient outcomes. |
BioPharma: The BioPharma industry includes core biopharmaceutical businesses that develop or produce their own medicines and treatments. Its services and supply chains include:
- Contract research and manufacturing organisations (CROs & CMOs)
- Suppliers of consumables and reagents for R&D facilities
- Logistics and distribution partners ensuring safe global delivery
BioPharma is classified under the Office for Life Sciences (OLS) bioscience and health technology sector system.
MedTech: The MedTech industry covers medical technology products and services ranging from single-use consumables to complex diagnostic and hospital systems. It also includes digital health platforms and AI-driven medical innovations.
Supporting businesses include:
- Contract design and manufacturing organisations
- Technology suppliers for research and production environments
- Software and AI developers for medical diagnostics
MedTech is also defined under the OLS health technology classification.
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SIC Codes for the Life Sciences Sector
While the SIC system doesn’t fully represent the Life Sciences sector, several codes capture its core activities.
| SIC Code | Description |
| 21 | Manufacture of basic pharmaceutical products and pharmaceutical preparations |
| 266 | Manufacture of irradiation, electromedical, and electrotherapeutic equipment |
| 325 | Manufacture of medical and dental instruments and supplies |
| 7211 | Research and experimental development on biotechnology |
The Office for Life Sciences supplements these with its own bioscience and health technology classifications for more precise industry representation.
Top 7 UK Life Sciences Companies by Turnover
- AstraZeneca PLC
Incorporated: 1992
Location: East of England
Latest Turnover: £41.7b
A global biopharmaceutical leader focused on discovering, developing, and commercialising prescription medicines. AstraZeneca drives innovation in oncology, cardiovascular, renal, and respiratory treatments, contributing significantly to the UK’s Life Sciences sector. - IQVIA Ltd.
Incorporated: 1995
Location: South East
Latest Turnover: £2.75b
A leading provider of advanced analytics, technology solutions, and clinical research services for the Life Sciences industry. IQVIA supports pharmaceutical and biotech companies in accelerating innovation and improving patient outcomes. - Hikma Pharmaceuticals Public Limited Company
Incorporated: 2005
Location: London
Latest Turnover: £2.36b
Manufactures and markets a broad range of branded and generic pharmaceutical products. Hikma focuses on improving access to high-quality medicines and advancing healthcare across the UK and global markets. - Illumina Cambridge Limited
Incorporated: 1998
Location: East of England
Latest Turnover: £2.31b
Specialises in genomic sequencing and analysis technologies that power research and innovation in precision medicine. Illumina plays a vital role in advancing the UK’s capabilities in genomics and life sciences research. - Sciensus Pharma Services Limited
Incorporated: 1992
Location: West Midlands
Latest Turnover: £1.6b
Provides pharmaceutical services and home-based healthcare delivery solutions. Sciensus supports patients with complex medical needs and partners with healthcare systems to enhance access to treatment and the continuity of care. - LivaNova PLC
Incorporated: 2015
Location: London
Latest Turnover: £932m
A global medical technology company developing devices and therapies for cardiovascular and neuromodulation disorders. LivaNova combines innovation and clinical expertise to improve patient outcomes worldwide. - Eli Lilly and Company Limited
Incorporated: 1934
Location: South East
Latest Turnover: £889m
Focuses on the research, development, and distribution of innovative pharmaceutical products. Eli Lilly’s UK operations contribute to global advancements in diabetes care, oncology, and immunology.
Conclusion
The UK Life Sciences sector is a cornerstone of the nation’s innovation economy, advancing health outcomes, scientific leadership, and sustainable growth. From pioneering research in biotechnology to cutting-edge medical technologies, Life Sciences Companies UK are shaping the future of global healthcare.
At DataGardener, we help businesses, researchers, and policymakers explore the Life Sciences ecosystem, from BioPharma to MedTech, through access to detailed company data, financial insights, and sector intelligence to support strategic decision-making and investment.
Other resources:
- A Complete Guide to Advanced Manufacturing – UK Modern Industrial Strategy
- How to Spot a Financially Unstable Business Before It’s Too Late
- What If You Could See Any Company’s Turnover in a Few Clicks?
