Innovation

Investment in research and development (R&D) is an integral part of Johnson Matthey’s growth strategy. It underpins the development of new products and manufacturing processes and enables the group to differentiate itself using its world class technology. In 2010/11 Johnson Matthey spent £109.8 million gross on R&D.

Our group technology centre is a central resource which conducts strategic R&D on behalf of all Johnson Matthey’s businesses. It operates across two sites in the UK (Sonning Common and Billingham) and employs around 200 people. In addition, the group’s businesses also have their own dedicated R&D and technical centres around the world which focus on the delivery of shorter term business specific projects.

In recognition of the company’s continual commitment to innovation and excellence Johnson Matthey has been awarded with the Queen’s Award no less than ten times.

First awarded in 1968 for Export Achievement, Johnson Matthey subsequently went on to win on many other occasions for Export, Technology, Environment and Innovation.

From an early stage in the history of the company, Johnson Matthey has nurtured and developed a special interest and expertise in platinum and these early developments formed the basis for the industrial applications of platinum, which remain the primary interest of the company to this day.