LIFE sciences firm Biofilm, which makes thin dissolvable film for controlled release of active ingredients, has secured £2.5 million of funding to increase the capacity of its Blantyre manufacturing plant as it takes on several larger contracts, writes Ian McConnell.

The funding, from Clydesdale and Yorkshire Banks’ growth finance team, will also allow Biofilm to invest in new development and laboratory facilities.

Biofilm’s products, which enable controlled release orally or topically, are commonly used as alternatives to traditional capsules and tablets. The company, a major manufacturer of thin dissolvable film in a European context, provides product development services for leading brands in relation to dental and oral health, cosmetic, nutritional and pharmaceutical products.

Ian Stevens, chief executive of Biofilm, said: “This funding package will be instrumental in the expansion of our modern manufacturing equipment and product development facilities.”

Biofilm, which has 60 employees and is based at Hamilton International Technology Park at Blantyre, was set up originally as a subsidiary of sausage-skin-maker Devro.

It is funded and supported by Tate & Lyle Ventures, Catapult Ventures and Scottish Enterprise.