Innovation

Research and development is an integral part of Johnson Matthey’s high technology businesses. One of the group’s strategies is to differentiate ourselves by using our world class technology and we invest significantly in research and development to develop new products and manufacturing processes. In 2007/08 Johnson Matthey spent £73.0 million gross on R&D.

We have a group technology centre located at Sonning Common in the UK which is focused on longer term research and has a worldwide reputation for excellence in catalysis and precious metals technology. In addition we have important research centres at Royston, Billingham and Stockton-on-Tees in the UK located close to some of our major businesses. Worldwide we have technical centres in many countries including the US, Japan, Sweden and the Netherlands.

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.