Nottingham-based Scientific Laboratory Supplies Ltd (SLS), the UK’s largest independent British-owned supplier of scientific equipment, chemicals and consumables, has recently appointed Joshua Chapman as Marketing Director. Mr Chapman (29) has joined the Operations Head Office in Nottingham to oversee the company’s marketing, promotional and digital strategy, which has already contributed to a 70% increase in international sales this year.
A graduate of Northumbria University and keen sportsman, Joshua first worked for SLS as a research manager in Sheffield. During that time, he provided evidence for the company expansion into the schools’ laboratory market which led to the launch of the SLS Select Education range of scientific equipment for secondary schools. In his new role, Joshua will oversee the continued expansion into sectors such as pathology and biotechnology, and will identify where the company can provide even greater purchasing efficiencies for customers. With over 40,000 people working in 1,400 life science and healthcare firms across the East Midlands, the SLS marketing and logistics teams already play a major part in the smooth running of the region’s leading commercial and research laboratories.
“I am delighted to be leading the SLS marketing team into the next phase of company growth. In just twenty years, we have built to a £40 million turnover and now employ over 160 staff. Nottingham is not only thriving as a centre of world-class scientific research, but is well-served by major transport links to the rest of the UK. Although we have to compete with major international corporations, we know customers like the personal and flexible approach we are respected for. I plan to reflect this in all our marketing activity.”
The company will continue to re-invest in logistics and has already expanded its warehousing capabilities into adjacent buildings on the Wilford Industrial Estate. Earlier this year, SLS was appointed to take on the management of the sole supply of laboratory consumables to public sector labs under an agreement awarded by the UK Shared Business Services (UKSBS). The contract has already provided additional employment in Nottingham.
