Exporting Case Study: ApconiX
The export market is fundamental to ApconiX’s success.
Formed in 2014, ApconiX was created by three former AstraZeneca colleagues who wanted to create a world-renowned, non-clinical drug safety company. This was driven by a shift in the pharmaceutical industry, which saw large life sciences companies adjusting their operating models to outsource specialist skills.
That vision became a reality when, in 2015, ApconiX opened an office and laboratory at Alderley Park. Since then, the company has experienced stellar growth, growing to a team of more than 5 people and exporting its services around the globe.
There are three key elements to the business: a consultancy group that advises clients on drug safety; an ion channel laboratory that screens new compounds for cardiac and neuro safety issues and Acuity Target Safety Assessments (TSAs) that identify and evaluate potential safety concerns for a new drug target. The third key element is project toxicology which proves support with clients’ preclinical safety programmes.
Utilising its highly qualified team and laboratory equipped with the latest generation instrumentation, ApconiX is currently carrying out novel research into seizure risk and constantly expands upon its areas of expertise.
The export market is fundamental to ApconiX’s success. The company’s drug research and development clients operate across the world and export revenue accounts for around 70% of its turnover. Principal markets for the business are the US, Germany, France, Belgium, and Switzerland. It now has ambitions to grow its presence in established bioscience markets, whilst also engaging with new clients in emerging markets such as China, southeast Asia, and Australia.
Dr Michael Morton, Director and Co-founder of ApconiX says: “We are able to offer a unique service, supporting large and small pharmaceutical and biotech clients all around the world. We provide access to skilled and specialist drug safety experts, matching needs and supporting specific projects whenever required.”
“We have built on our scientific reputation, attended conferences worldwide and worked closely with international companies and we’ll be participating in a host of conferences – in the US, Europe and the UK. The North West Department for International Trade team has been hugely supportive in helping us to access these events, gain wider exposure and forge trade links around the world.”
ApconiX is now focused on its next stage of development, which will involve the launch of additional office and laboratory space at Alderley Park, along with the further expansion of its team. In 2022, the company was honoured with a Queen’s Award for Enterprise, which recognised ApconiX for its excellence in International Trade.
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