May 12, 2024

The Growing Biotherapeutics Industry Is Driving Demand For Small Scale Bioreactors

Small scale bioreactors are utilized for research and development in the biopharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. They are essential laboratory tools used for developing and optimizing biological processes at a small scale prior to commercial production. Biotherapeutic drugs derived from living cells through processes such as cell culture are in high demand for treating conditions such as cancer and chronic diseases. However, developing effective biotherapeutic solutions require extensive research and testing at a small scale to understand drug characteristics, efficacy, and safety. Small scale bioreactors play a critical role in conducting various experiments to optimize cell culture parameters such as growth conditions, nutrient requirements and product yields at low volumes. This helps reduce costs and sets the foundation for robust and scalable commercial production processes.

The global Small Scale Bioreactors Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 334.2 million in 2023 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 3.8% over the forecast period 2023-2031, as highlighted in a new report published by Coherent Market Insights.

Market key trends:

One of the key trends driving growth in the small scale bioreactors market is the increasing adoption of single-use bioreactors. Traditionally, stainless-steel bioreactors were the norm for production. However, single-use bioreactors are gaining widespread acceptance owing to advantages such as reduced risk of cross-contamination, lower capital costs, higher flexibility and ease of scalability. Manufacturers are offering novel single-use bioreactors designed specifically for small scale applications with working volumes ranging from milliliters to 2000 liters. The growing preference for single-use equipment is expected to boost adoption of small scale single-use bioreactors amongst biopharmaceutical companies and research institutes over the forecast period.

Porter’s Analysis
Threat of new entrants: The threat of new entrants in the small scale bioreactors market is low as it requires high initial investments and strong technical know-how. There are also economies of scale and established customer base for existing players.
Bargaining power of buyers: The bargaining power of buyers is moderate since there are alternatives available. However, quality of products and services influence purchasing decisions.
Bargaining power of suppliers: The bargaining power of suppliers is moderate due to availability of substitute raw materials and components. Supplier switching costs are also moderate.
Threat of new substitutes: The threat of new substitutes is moderate as lab scale production using steel drums and flasks provide economical options. However, bioreactors provide consistent and scalable production.
Competive rivalry: Competition in the market is high and players focus on product development, collaboration and partnerships.

Key Takeaways

The Global Small Scale Bioreactors Market Growth is expected to witness high over the forecast period owing to increasing demand from pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.

Regional analysis – North America dominated the global small scale bioreactors market in 2019. This is attributed to strong government funding for research & development activities in the region. Asia Pacific is expected to be the fastest growing market led by growth in the biotechnology sector in emerging countries like China and India.

Key players operating in the small scale bioreactors market are Thermo Fisher, Merck KGaA, Sartorius, GE Healthcare, Pall, Eppendorf and Solaris Biotech. Thermo fisher and Sartorius are the leading players offering products and integrated solutions acrossbenchtop, laboratory and production scales. Other players also focus on strategic partnerships and collaborations.

*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it