The life science industry is at a critical turning point: celebrated as systemically relevant during the coronavirus pandemic, many laboratories are now struggling with massive restrictions. A recent Europe-wide survey, conducted by laboratory product manufacturer Starlab, of 378 laboratory employees from five countries paints an alarming picture.
Although the supply of laboratory materials has returned to normal after the pandemic-related fluctuations, staff shortages, increasing cost pressures, and the economic slowdown are putting a heavy burden on the life science industry. Sixty-four percent of the laboratories surveyed have already introduced cost-cutting measures. Fifty-eight percent report concrete budget cuts, while 42 percent are forced to prioritize areas for research. "This development endangers not only individual research projects but also the competitiveness and innovative strength of entire science locations," warns Klaus Ambos, Managing Director of Starlab International GmbH.
Subdued future prospects for 2025
The outlook for the laboratory industry is sober: Thirty-seven percent of those surveyed expect negative economic development by the end of 2025, while only 15 percent are optimistic about the future. The remaining 48 percent are undecided. "The fact that almost half do not want to commit indicates that neither a positive nor negative trend has solidified. Therefore, it's not too late to turn things around," says Ambos.
The situation in Germany is particularly critical: Here, only 15 percent of laboratories expect budgets to increase – the lowest figure in a European comparison. With a 22.5 percent decline in material consumption in 2024, German facilities are also recording the sharpest cuts.
Science deserves political priority
The industry's demand is clear: Seventy-nine percent of respondents are calling for more political priority for the life sciences industry. "Politicians must act now," warns Ambos. "The contrast couldn't be greater. In the Corona pandemic, science was the great beacon of hope, and companies like BioNTech became widely visible for the first time. In contrast, today – without an acute crisis – research budgets are being cut. Systemically relevant research takes place all the time. In Germany and across Europe, so many promising approaches are being pursued in cancer research alone, but this is not visible enough."
According to Starlab International CEO Ambos, innovations for climate protection, health, and an aging society are needed right now. "We cannot afford to value science only in times of crisis. The foundation for future crises is being built today."
Balancing cost-saving needs with ambitious sustainability goals and willingness to innovate
Despite the tense situation, the industry is showing a remarkable willingness to innovate: More than 65 percent of those surveyed see sustainability and environmental protection as central topics for the future. Ninety-five percent of people are willing to use recycled products. Of these, 70 percent would do so if quality is guaranteed, 12 percent without any restrictions, 13 percent if prices remain unchanged, and 5 percent depending on the specific product. Many laboratories have already taken concrete measures – 83 percent are implementing recycling programs, 64 percent are using reusable systems for consumables, and 62 percent are investing in energy-saving equipment.
Nevertheless, obstacles often stand in the way of implementation: Eighty percent cite costs as the main barrier, followed by time expenditure (75%) and lack of information on sustainability options and possibilities for implementation (63%). "The laboratories want to actively shape the change. But it needs the right framework conditions and support from all sides," says Ambos. "In concrete terms, this means that policymakers must do more to promote sustainable research and reduce regulatory hurdles. As a manufacturer, we are challenged to offer innovative and affordable solutions such as recyclable products and closed-loop material cycles. And last but not least, the public needs to understand that investments in sustainable science are an investment in the future of all of us."
About the study
The survey was conducted in January 2025 among 378 laboratory staff in Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Austria. Most participants (65%) work as laboratory managers or laboratory technicians. A further 24 percent of respondents are made up of scientific staff – including professors and project managers (7%), doctoral students and post-docs (6%), and researchers and medical researchers (8%). The field of participants is supplemented by laboratory directors (3%), buyers (1%), and employees from other laboratory areas (10%).
