Queens Award

Case Study

National Graphene Institute


The £61m ‘National Graphene Institute’ (NGI) is the world’s leading facility for graphene research. The building was designed to continue the world class research into Graphene, initially developed at the University of Manchester.

S+B UK were approached by BAM Construction during the main contractor tender process to act as there laboratory furniture partner, when BAM were subsequently awarded the project, S+B were heavily involved in the design and specification of the truly unique laboratory benching requirements. Completely demountable bench designs were created, incorporating a Bosch Rexroth framework to allow maximum flexibility.

The client team made several visits to the S+B manufacturing facility to review the product development process. Once on site, S+B UK were able to deliver the installation much more efficiently than a typical laboratory installation due the modular and flexible bench designs. Following the success of this installation, S+B have recently been awarded the laboratory furniture package at the new ‘Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre’ (GEIC) which is due for completion in February 2018.


Client Testimonial

BAM worked very hard in securing this prestigious and innovative project. It was clear from the outset that we needed a strong proven team to develop and present our offering to this client. We also knew that we would have to keep that team together to deliver the project successfully.

Having worked successfully with S+B on several projects in the past, we had no hesitation in inviting them to partner us in the bid preparation and submission. It was important for us to demonstrate expertise in completing a hi tech research and development facility and it was vital to have a proven fume cupboard and lab furniture specialist as part of that process.
S+B brought their knowledge to the table and we have no doubt that this helped set our proposals apart and helped us secure the contract.

The client liked the S+B wide ranging standard products but also had bespoke requirements and it was clear from the start that this did not present any difficulty.
Having won the contract, we are delighted to be able to say that it was successfully completed. The product and service supplied by S+B is of the highest quality and looks great. The client is very happy and so are we.

Tony Grindrod
Construction Director
North West BAM Construction Ltd