Thornton & Ross Limited
Location: Huddersfield
Turnover: Over £50 million
World leading pharmaceutical company
As the largest independent pharmaceutical manufacturer in the UK, Thornton & Ross Ltd is a rapidly expanding family-owned company.
The company employs around 400 people at its Huddersfield site, where it develops, manufactures and supplies over-the-counter pharmacy brands including household names Covonia, Setlers and Hedrin. In fact it was the development of the award-winning head lice treatment, Hedrin, that provided Thornton & Ross with the opportunity to expand its operations into the international market in 2006.
"Although it's only a few years since we entered the global market, it now accounts for 25% of our business. Patent protected technology developed here in Huddersfield has resulted in the manufacture of products that are now sold in over 90 countries worldwide," said Thornton & Ross chairman, Jonathan Thornton.
A rich history
Founded in 1922, the company has always taken advantage of the region's rich manufacturing and engineering heritage. With a local population skilled in manufacturing and complementary engineering companies, Thornton & Ross has quickly evolved into the market-leading company it is today.
The company still relies on local skills and has close links with the University of Huddersfield. In particular the company works closely with the University's IPOS (Innovative Physical Organic Solutions) research group, within the Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences.
"We take full advantage of the University's skills and knowledge when it comes to providing solutions for technical aspects of production and analysis. While we could do the work onsite, it's much more convenient and efficient for us to utilise the University's services," said Jonathan.
Plans for expansion
Having made a number of key brand acquisitions in recent years, Thornton & Ross has aggressive plans for growth and expansion. More recently Thornton & Ross developed a new tank farm which allows it to make more effective use of its existing site and increase the flexibility and efficiency of its manufacturing and packing facilities. Looking to the future, Thornton & Ross is keen to build on its recent international success and move from a national to a truly global pharmaceutical organisation.