LIC will build a new diagnostics laboratory at its Newstead, Hamilton site, as demand continues to grow for GeneMark® Genomics and animal health testing.
The co-operative’s current Diagnostics facility at Riverlea has reached capacity and cannot accommodate additional growth.
With the lease on the site due to expire, the new build provides a practical opportunity to invest in a fit-for-purpose laboratory on land already owned by LIC, keeping development costs down.
GM of Operations, Mark Julian, says the investment is about making sure the co-op can continue to deliver for farmers while supporting its people.
“For farmers, it’s about having confidence the testing they rely on will keep being delivered consistently as demand increases.
“And for our teams, it means a better working environment, with the space and set-up to do the job properly.”
Over time, the facility will allow LIC to increase testing capacity and introduce new technologies as they become available, with the new facility expected to open by August 2027.
