West Midlands Investment Momentum: October 2026
At a glance:
- Selene Clinical Research opened its first UK clinical research centre in Birmingham, with up to 30 local jobs planned over three years.
- Cadent signed a 10-year lease for an 80,000 sq ft distribution facility in Erdington, with around 100 jobs to be created.
- Birmingham manufacturer C. Brandauer secured a £199,500 R&D grant to develop electric motor components.
New to the West Midlands
Selene Clinical Research opens first UK centre in Birmingham
Selene Clinical Research has opened its first UK clinical research centre at Millennium Point in Birmingham. The NHS-integrated centre will focus on clinical trials for women and children, with up to 30 local jobs planned over the next three years.
WMGC supported Selene’s move to Birmingham by identifying Millennium Point as a suitable location and introducing the founders to the venue. The team also organised the centre’s launch.
Investing and expanding here
Cadent signs 10-year lease for Erdington distribution facility
Cadent has signed a 10-year lease for an 80,000 sq ft distribution facility at DC4 in Bromford Gate, Erdington, next to its existing national distribution centre, with the facility expected to become operational in early 2027 and around 100 jobs expected.
Gifford Bioscience expands BioHub Birmingham facilities
Gifford Bioscience has expanded its BioHub Birmingham facilities with a dedicated radiometric laboratory for contract research, receptor pharmacology and drug discovery studies. The laboratory opened in July 2026, with the company announcing the expansion in October.
RAW Charging and Hubber open public 16-bay EV charging hub in Sandwell
RAW Charging and Hubber have opened a new ultra-rapid EV charging hub in Tipton, Sandwell. The site has 16 bays, including eight 150kW chargers and eight 300kW chargers.
C. Brandauer secures £199,500 manufacturing R&D grant
Birmingham manufacturer C. Brandauer & Co has secured a £199,500 public R&D grant through the West Midlands Supply Chain Transition Programme, funded through the West Midlands Investment Zone. The funding will support the development of manufacturing processes for lamination stacks used in electric motors, linking the project to the region’s electric vehicle supply chain.
October’s announcements show how established industries and new technologies are developing side by side across the West Midlands. Manufacturers are using their existing expertise to develop new products for the electric vehicle market, while businesses are exploring new materials and expanding clinical research. Across Birmingham, Sandwell and Wolverhampton, this shows how the region is building on its industrial strengths while creating opportunities in new markets.
Considering a West Midlands location for your next investment or expansion? Speak to our expert team.