Biotech firm Proteintech selects 196 Deansgate for new European HQ

US biotech firm Proteintech is set to establish a new European HQ in the centre of Manchester.

The firm has announced plans to move its UK base from Manchester Science Park on Oxford Road to 196 Deansgate, signing up for 4,631 sq ft of fourth floor space on a five-year lease.

The building, owned by property investment firm CEG, is currently undergoing a £2.3m makeover that will create a new reception along with refurbished first and second floors.

CEG investment manager Greg Lacey said: “Momentum is really starting to build at 196 Deansgate as we near the launch of the first and second floors in July.

“The businesses that have chosen to make this their home have not had to compromise on location, the standard of accommodation nor on the character of the building itself as 196 retains a wealth of stunning architectural features.”

He added: “With another deal in legals on the third floor we hope to announce further lettings prior to practical completion.”

Property consultancy WHR and Canning O’Neill are joint agents for 196 Deansgate, which comprises 48,000 sq ft of office space across five upper floors and 17,784 sq ft of ground floor retail space.

Harry Skinner, a senior surveyor with WHR, commented: “196’s contemporary design has appealed to a variety of sectors and attracted a broad tenant mix including Citypress, Adimus Investments and now Proteintech Europe.

“We are confident that we will secure further interest once the scaffolding is dismantled and Manchester is again able to see the building’s grand exterior.”

Established in Chicago in 2002, Proteintech provides antibodies for medical and life science research organisations.

Digital agency McCann Manchester is also due to relocate its Manchester operations to 196 Deansgate.