The 3M Buckley Innovation Centre (3M BIC) in Huddersfield has welcomed several new tenants, further strengthening its reputation as a hub for technology, innovation and sustainability-led enterprises.
Munnch, Xanthe Quayle Landscape Architects, and Machine Tool Technologies (MTT) have joined the Centre as it embarks on an exciting new chapter under the leadership of its newly appointed CEO.
Munnch is a biomaterials startup revitalising the designed environment with a 100% sustainable, home-compostable alternative to plastics, timbers and ceramics. Focused on the circular economy, Munnch brings eco-friendly innovation to sectors such as furniture, semi-permanent installations and the performing arts.
Xanthe Quayle Landscape Architects is a concept-led design practice that is passionate about delivering high-quality, sustainable landscape-based solutions for people, planet and place. The company’s move to the 3M BIC highlights the growing intersection between environmental design and urban sustainability.
Machine Tool Technologies (MTT), the UK’s largest independent CNC machine tool support organisation, has also established a base at the 3M BIC. The company’s expertise in precision engineering, diagnostics and performance optimisation will bring valuable knowledge to the centre’s thriving community of advanced manufacturing and engineering companies.
The arrival of these businesses underscores the 3M BIC’s role in supporting innovative SMEs through access to flexible office and lab space, technical expertise, product development facilities and business support. Located in the heart of Huddersfield and a subsidiary of the University of Huddersfield, the centre offers a collaborative environment that fosters growth and commercialisation across a range of sectors.
Munnch co-founder, Ben Coyne, said:
“We were looking for a small lab space close to our home base of Leeds. 3M BIC offered both a suitable lab space, ready for us to begin our prototyping work, as well as a community of scientific and design-driven people, through which we were able to source solutions to our setup challenges quickly and easily.”
Founding Director, Xanthe Quayle, commented:
“Having had an office in the Colne Valley for over 25 years it was a big move to consider relocation into Huddersfield town centre but with the excellent facilities and connectivity at 3M BIC, combined with a sister office at Lancaster University, it made total sense as part of our growth strategy.”
Andrew Spalding Operations Director at MTT, added:
“Establishing a base at the 3M BIC brings us closer to our long-standing partners at the University of Huddersfield and the Centre for Precision Technologies, strengthening our collaborative efforts in advanced manufacturing. The centre also provides an ideal location for our remote staff to work flexibly and offers us a professional setting to host customers and demonstrate our latest technologies. We’re excited to be part of this dynamic and innovative community.”
Commenting on the new businesses, the 3M BIC’s new CEO, Henry Rigg, said:
“We’re delighted to welcome such a diverse group of innovative businesses to the centre. Each of these organisations brings something unique to the 3M BIC community, from cutting-edge biomaterials to sustainable design and advanced engineering expertise.
“Their presence at the 3M BIC not only strengthens our position as a hub for innovation and enterprise in the region but also reflects the growing demand for flexible, high-quality workspace supported by strong industry and academic connections.”
With access to cutting-edge facilities, technical expertise and close links to the University of Huddersfield, the 3M BIC remains a key driver of innovation, collaboration and sustainable economic growth in West Yorkshire and beyond.
Several office and lab spaces are still available at the 3M BIC. More information can be found here.
