MADISON, Wis. — Abingdon Health, a York, England-based company renowned for developing and producing lateral-flow diagnostic tests, has chosen Madison and Wisconsin to expand its U.S. presence. This decision underscores Wisconsin’s position as a leader in the health-tech sector, which encompasses diagnostics, therapeutics, devices, imaging, and health information systems — a competitive edge crucial for the state’s economic future.
Chris Yates, Abingdon Health’s CEO, noted that the United States is the largest market for the company’s customers, making it a strategic location for their first domestic facility. “The United States is the largest market for our customers, so it made sense to establish our first domestic facility here,” Yates explained. “From a regulatory standpoint, it’s essentially the global standard.”
Wisconsin’s appeal lies in its “very well-established biotech community” and related resources, Yates added. The state’s medical research capabilities, courtesy of institutions like the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and its workforce training programs were significant factors in the decision-making process. “We’re delighted to be here,” Yates said.
The Madison region boasts a robust health-tech ecosystem, with over 40,000 people employed in related industries, according to the Wisconsin Technology Council. Companies like Exact Sciences in Verona and Promega in Fitchburg are among the notable health-tech firms in the area. The industry’s economic impact was estimated at $13.8 billion in 2023, with a significant portion coming from indirect job creation.
Wisconsin’s health-tech sector benefits from a combination of factors, including research funding, talent from top medical schools, and support from state institutions. The presence of organizations like the Morgridge Institute for Research and the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation further enhances the state’s research capabilities.
The state’s health-tech industry is not without its challenges, however. Rural areas face difficulties in accessing healthcare services, and there’s a need for continued investment in research infrastructure. Nonetheless, the sector remains a vital part of Wisconsin’s economy, with companies like Abingdon Health contributing to its growth and international reputation.
As Yates put it, “It’s a really good cultural fit. We’re delighted to be here.” The arrival of Abingdon Health is seen as a vote of confidence in Wisconsin’s health-tech industry, reinforcing its status as a hub for medical innovation.
