CARY, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--SBM Life Science continues expanding its North American operations with the completion of its first U.S.-based field research station in White Heath, Ill.
Located 15 miles west of Champaign, Ill., the SBM Life Science Research and Development Center features turf and ornamental research plots and a 5,000-square-foot facility that houses a laboratory, offices, conference room and an equipment shop.
“By establishing the Research and Development Center, we continue to implement our expansion strategy in the U.S. by demonstrating our commitment to delivering science-based solutions that our customers can trust,” said Jim Van Handel, President of SBM Life Science, N.A.
The site includes three acres of cool season turf plots, including Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass and tall fescue. A one-acre perennial nursery with 300 established roses, and plans to expand in spring 2018. Additionally, there is one-acre for annual plant testing.
“The center is a modern facility specifically designed to be a hub where our dedicated team continuously works to adapt our offerings to satisfy the needs of our customers with innovative products that protect and enhance their homes and gardens,” added Jennifer Poling, SBM Life Science Research Biologist and Site Manager.
The site was secured in 2016, construction was completed at the end of 2017, and the facility became operational in January 2018. Activities at the center focus on testing new innovations for SBM’s BioAdvanced™ Science-Based Solutions and Natria® lawn and garden products. Future growth plans include the addition of a greenhouse by 2019.
ABOUT SBM COMPANY
SBM Company is a family-owned industrial group with French roots, created in 1994, operating today in more than 20 countries. SBM Company creates, registers, manufactures and markets products to advance plant protection and home and garden care, from research to the consumer’s hands.
The group operates in 4 activities: crop protection, industrial production -with 2 plants in France-, aromatherapy and Home & Garden, through a dedicated entity called SBM Life Science.
SBM Company is committed to providing responsible and innovative solutions now and for future generations.
ABOUT SBM LIFE SCIENCE
SBM Life Science is the Home & Garden division of SBM Company, born out of the merger of Novajardin (SBM Group) and Bayer Garden & Bayer Advanced in October 2016. This division employs 350 staff, with more than 20 locations in Europe and the US. With over 2500 products distributed worldwide, SBM Life Science is an expert on plants’ care and beauty as well as protecting the home against rodents and insect pests.
