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An independent CDMO of 26 years, backed by deep technical expertise, regulatory excellence and a proven delivery track record.

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YEARS OF OPERATION

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Years of formulation expertise across oral, nasal, pulmonary and parenteral dosage forms

employees

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Employees, scientists, manufacturing and operational staff based in Nottingham, UK

regulatory track record

MHRA

MHRA Approval in 2024 following successful initial site inspection, with a successful follow up MHRA surveillance inspection in October 2025.

growth

Recognised as one of the Fastest Growing UK Companies in the Sunday Times Hundred 2024

“When faced with a molecule that needed to transition from candidate nomination to first-in-human trials within 10 months, Upperton’s deep expertise in navigating these kinds of challenges made them the clear choice. The Upperton team brought genuine curiosity and relentless focus to every stage of the development journey in order to deliver.”
Head of CMC
GreyWolf Therapeutics

Case studies

Upperton partnered with a client requiring urgent reformulation of a drug product due to stability issues with an existing liquid format. The objective was to rapidly convert the formulation into a spray-dried powder suitable for Phase 1 clinical evaluation within an accelerated timeline.

Scientific Delivery

Upperton initiated comprehensive R&D, including API characterisation, prototype development, spray drying trials, and evaluation of powder morphology and stability. Lead formulations progressed to informal stability studies and supported preclinical material supply, alongside development of a matching placebo. Analytical methods were also established for assay, impurities, emitted dose, and microbiology to support clinical release. As project requirements evolved, Upperton rapidly adapted plans, incorporating regulatory feedback such as placebo inclusion and revised fill weights, despite limited API availability.

Speed, Flexibility & Collaboration

Upperton demonstrated exceptional agility, progressing from proposal to clinical manufacture and QP release within just three months. Close coordination with a third-party partner ensured timely clinical labelling, release, and EU delivery within the required dosing window. Transparent communication and real-time milestone tracking enabled efficient decision-making and programme alignment.

Impact

The client successfully initiated Phase 1a dosing within three months, with resulting data supporting further optimisation of the lead formulation. The project highlights Upperton’s strength in rapid scientific problem-solving, adaptability, and delivery of high-quality outcomes under demanding timelines.

Upperton delivered an exceptionally fast and complex tech transfer of a spray-dried programme,with the goal of reaching UK clinical dosing within just three months, an unusually ambitious timeline.

Technical Delivery

Upperton managed the full end-to-end process, including technical transfer, R&D feasibility, onboarding new equipment, and coordinating API and material logistics. Work spanned multiple molecules, with successful completion of a placebo tech batch, stability establishment, and progression into GMP manufacture. Delivery was strengthened by co-located CDMO functions, enabling seamless collaboration.

Collaboration & Flexibility

The partnership was defined by strong collaboration, transparency, and responsiveness. Upperton’s team worked closely with the client, enabling rapid decision-making and shared ownership of outcomes. Exceptional flexibility was demonstrated, including adjusting batch sizes with just 24 hours’ notice, an uncommon capability in the industry.

Delivery & Outcomes

All milestones were achieved on time and with high quality. Clinical batches were manufactured, released, and delivered for UK dosing within three months, maintaining compliance and cost control throughout.

Client Feedback

The client praised Upperton’s professionalism, flexibility, and proactive approach, describing the partnership as transformative and instrumental in successfully achieving critical milestones.

“Working with Upperton has been exceptional. Their project management approach is marked by outstanding organisation, proactive communication, and a deep commitment to meeting project milestones.”
Independent CMC Consultant

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Hear from GMPharma on their work with Upperton and the benefits of a CDMO model built around one site, one team, and deep scientific expertise.

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