After a challenging couple of years, the biotech industry is finally showing signs of a meaningful rebound. While headlines often paint a picture of caution and volatility, those on the ground from R&D labs to investor meetings are seeing something different momentum building beneath the surface.
There’s a quiet but growing optimism, fuelled by real progress. EY’s recent report highlights a healthy pace of FDA drug approvals and a notable rise in AI-driven platforms that are reshaping how R&D is approached streamlining discovery and reducing time-to-market. Meanwhile, first-in-class therapies across gene therapy, siRNA, and mRNA are yielding exciting clinical data, reinforcing biotech’s innovative edge.
On the financial front, CBRE’s 2025 Life Sciences outlook points to falling interest rates and an uptick in venture capital, creating a more supportive environment for growth. Even the S&P Biotech ETF has shown signs of recovery a clear indicator that investor confidence is starting to return.
From our time on the ground at BIO International in Boston and the Biotechnology Show in London, one trend stood out clearly: CDMOs and CROs are in a high-stakes race for market share and talent. The companies making real gains have a clear, differentiated USP and a strong go-to-market strategy. Those trying to be everything to everyone are struggling to stay relevant.
Notably, the demand for commercial talent in CDMOs has surged, making it one of the most sought-after skill sets in the industry.
In 2025, biotech’s winners will be those who focus, specialise, and build the right teams to scale smart.