Published: 6/22/2026
Smithers is expanding its Distribution Testing laboratory in Leatherhead, UK, to meet growing demand. Construction is currently underway, with completion expected by the last quarter of 2026.
The expanded facility will deliver a 55% increase in total footprint, adding an additional 3,800 sq ft of conditioned laboratory space and will further enhance testing capacity. The investment reflects increasing demand across sectors including e-commerce, consumer goods, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices, as products move through more demanding distribution environments.
The enhanced facility will increase capacity across Smithers distribution testing services, including specialised programmes such as combined hazard testing for pharmaceutical and medical device products. These programmes enable clients to assess how products perform under multiple stresses, including temperature variation, vibration, and handling, helping better reflect real-world distribution conditions.
"This expansion reflects the continued growth in demand we're seeing across key sectors" said James Raw, Operations Director of Packaging Testing, Smithers Materials Science and Engineering Division EU. "As distribution networks continue to evolve, particularly in areas such as e-commerce and regulated inustries, clients are looking for testing that reflects real-world conditions. By increasing our capacity in Leatherhead, we're expanding access to the testing our clients rely on and supporting them as they bring products to market."
The expanded laboratory will help clients bring products to market while reducing the risk of damage during transit.
This investment reinforces Smithers commitment to supporting clients throughout the packaging development and validation process, complementing its broader packaging testing capabilities at its Leatherhead, UK facility, including
materials testing,
primary packaging performance testing, and
food contact compliance services.
Learn more about our Distribution Testing services.
