The global central lab market size was estimated at USD 31.19 billion in 2022 and is expected to surpass around USD 58.6 billion by 2032 and poised to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.51% during the forecast period 2023 to 2032.
Key Pointers:
Central Lab Market Report Scope
Report Coverage |
Details |
Market Size in 2023 |
USD 33.22 Billion |
Market Size by 2032 |
USD 58.6 Billion |
Growth Rate From 2023 to 2032 |
CAGR of 6.51% |
Base Year |
2022 |
Forecast Period |
2023 to 2032 |
Segments Covered |
Product Type , By End User |
Regional Scope |
North America; Europe; Asia Pacific; Central and South America; the Middle East and Africa |
Key Companies profiled |
ACM Global Laboratories; Labconnect; Cerba Research; Eurofins Scientific; Medicover Integrated Clinical Services; Versiti; A.P. Møller Holding A/S; Ampersand Capital Partners; Lambda Therapeutic Research Ltd; Cirion Biopharma Research Inc. |
Most of the pharmaceutical companies are investing in the development of novel drugs and devices. The pharmaceutical industry, in particular, is R&D-intensive. Pharmaceutical companies invest in R&D to deliver high quality and innovative products to the market. The trend suggests that the top pharma companies are increasing their R&D efficiencies by increasing investments for assured returns in the long term and through collaborative R&D efforts. According to an Evaluate Pharma report, the global pharmaceutical R&D spending stood at US$ 137 Bn in 2012, which increased to US$ 187Bn in 2019.
Increase in pharmaceutical R&D has resulted in a sharp increase in the number of cell & gene therapy candidates under development. This has made it necessary to outsource manufacturing services to develop cost-effective and efficient cell & gene therapies, which drives the central lab market.
The number of trials in Asia Pacific is increasing, and so has the use of remote clinical sites. Additionally, local regulatory issues around the shipment of human blood samples drive the need to have short (less than one day) shipping distances from clinical sites to lab testing facilities to ensure that samples could be rapidly tested in a central lab using globally standard equipment.
Earlier, most clinical trial laboratory testing was done by local laboratory, which was organized by individual principle investigator. Collecting data from multiple local laboratories that used different testing methodologies, reference ranges, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) was associated with data errors resulting in consequent delays and increased cost for sponsors.
Mismarked kits, incomplete samples, and inaccurate tests were common. The laboratory results received at the conclusion of the clinical trial revealed a very high error rate. This situation got even more complicated as the trial became globalized. Processing of data containing such inaccuracies leads to months of data cleaning work in order to make it analyzable.
Central labs train the site staff for proper collection, packaging, and labelling requirements, thereby reducing human errors, which can lead to miss identification and reporting of samples. Central laboratories standardize selection of proper method for analysis and equipment that indicate suitable blood volume to be collected and also standardize the final report formats. Hence, these factors drive the global central lab market.
Product Insights
The biomarker services segment held the highest market share of 38.35% in 2022 and is expected to witness the highest growth during the forecast period. The growth of the segment can be attributed to the co-development of diagnostics & drugs and the selection of appropriate assay development platforms that provide new opportunities for the integration of biomarkers in clinical processes. In the case of central labs, integration of biomarker services with other trial support offerings can strengthen the offerings by increasing the feasibility of the evaluation of biomarker assays.
Genetic services are gaining a foothold due to the increasing significance of genetic analysis in clinical studies and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.9% over the forecast period. Understanding the underlying genetic factors can aid in the development of targeted therapies for a variety of diseases, such as cancer and inheritable diseases. Furthermore, genetic differences in pathways for drug metabolism may alter a patient’s response to treatment. Hence, genetic services can add value to trial analysis and help guide treatment options.
End-use Insights
The pharmaceutical companies end-use segment held the highest market share of 45.39% in 2022. Clinical trials for new pharmaceuticals are supported by central labs, as are genetic testing services for disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, sickle cell anemia, and Parkinson's disease. As a result, the increasing number of clinical studies and the rising prevalence of genetic illnesses are expected to fuel the expansion of the market during the forecast period. Furthermore, as pharmaceutical firms are continually looking for ways to save costs in drug development and manufacturing, the demand for central labs is expected to surge in the future.
The academic and research institutes segment held a significant market share in 2022, owing to the increasing trend among pharmaceutical companies to outsource non-core activities or development-related processes to off-shore sites to save money. Hence, by opting for the help of CROs, several operational benefits can be obtained. Moreover, factors driving the market include an increase in the number of diseases, the development of novel treatments & medications, and significant research funding, proposals, & financing from governments to build innovative testing processes.
Regional Insights
North America dominated the market with a share of 41.75% in 2022. The market is collectively driven by a significant percentage of R&D in the region along with the presence of a supportive regulatory landscape. Moreover, the high prevalence of infections such as Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) & tuberculosis in the region is also anticipated to propel the demand for clinical research pertaining to the development of diagnostics devices and therapeutics.
The Asia Pacific is expected to witness the fastest growth of 7.9% in the market due to the increasing adoption of central lab services in the region. This can be attributed to rapid economic growth and an increase in R&D investment by countries, such as China and Japan, which has led to a rise in the number of clinical trials conducted.
Some of the prominent players in the Central Lab Market include:
Segments Covered in the Report
This report forecasts revenue growth at global, regional, and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2032. For this study, Nova one advisor, Inc. has segmented the global Central Lab market.
By Product Type
By End User
By Region
Chapter 1. Introduction
1.1. Research Objective
1.2. Scope of the Study
1.3. Definition
Chapter 2. Research Methodology
2.1. Research Approach
2.2. Data Sources
2.3. Assumptions & Limitations
Chapter 3. Executive Summary
3.1. Market Snapshot
Chapter 4. Market Variables and Scope
4.1. Introduction
4.2. Market Classification and Scope
4.3. Industry Value Chain Analysis
4.3.1. Raw Material Procurement Analysis
4.3.2. Sales and Distribution Channel Analysis
4.3.3. Downstream Buyer Analysis
Chapter 5. COVID 19 Impact on Central Lab Market
5.1. COVID-19 Landscape: Central Lab Industry Impact
5.2. COVID 19 - Impact Assessment for the Industry
5.3. COVID 19 Impact: Global Major Government Policy
5.4. Market Trends and Opportunities in the COVID-19 Landscape
Chapter 6. Market Dynamics Analysis and Trends
6.1. Market Dynamics
6.1.1. Market Drivers
6.1.2. Market Restraints
6.1.3. Market Opportunities
6.2. Porter’s Five Forces Analysis
6.2.1. Bargaining power of suppliers
6.2.2. Bargaining power of buyers
6.2.3. Threat of substitute
6.2.4. Threat of new entrants
6.2.5. Degree of competition
Chapter 7. Competitive Landscape
7.1.1. Company Market Share/Positioning Analysis
7.1.2. Key Strategies Adopted by Players
7.1.3. Vendor Landscape
7.1.3.1. List of Suppliers
7.1.3.2. List of Buyers
Chapter 8. Global Central Lab Market, By Product
8.1. Central Lab Market, by Product Type, 2023-2032
8.1.1. Genetic Services
8.1.1.1. Market Revenue and Forecast (2020-2032)
8.1.2. Biomarker Services
8.1.2.1. Market Revenue and Forecast (2020-2032)
8.1.3. Microbiology Services
8.1.3.1. Market Revenue and Forecast (2020-2032)
8.1.4. Anatomic Pathology/Histology
8.1.4.1. Market Revenue and Forecast (2020-2032)
8.1.5. Specimen Management & Storage
8.1.5.1. Market Revenue and Forecast (2020-2032)
8.1.6. Special Chemistry Services
8.1.6.1. Market Revenue and Forecast (2020-2032)
8.1.7. Clinical Research & Trial Services
8.1.7.1. Market Revenue and Forecast (2020-2032)
8.1.8. Others
8.1.8.1. Market Revenue and Forecast (2020-2032)
Chapter 9. Global Central Lab Market, By Application
9.1. Central Lab Market, by Application, 2023-2032
9.1.1. Pharmaceutical Companies
9.1.1.1. Market Revenue and Forecast (2020-2032)
9.1.2. Biotechnology Companies
9.1.2.1. Market Revenue and Forecast (2020-2032)
9.1.3. Academic & Research Institutes
9.1.3.1. Market Revenue and Forecast (2020-2032)
9.1.4. Others
9.1.4.1. Market Revenue and Forecast (2020-2032)
Chapter 10. Global Central Lab Market, Regional Estimates and Trend Forecast
10.1. North America
10.1.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.1.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.1.3. U.S.
10.1.3.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.1.3.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.1.4. Rest of North America
10.1.4.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.1.4.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.2. Europe
10.2.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.2.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.2.3. UK
10.2.3.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.2.3.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.2.4. Germany
10.2.4.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.2.4.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.2.5. France
10.2.5.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.2.5.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.2.6. Rest of Europe
10.2.6.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.2.6.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.3. APAC
10.3.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.3.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.3.3. India
10.3.3.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.3.3.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.3.4. China
10.3.4.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.3.4.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.3.5. Japan
10.3.5.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.3.5.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.3.6. Rest of APAC
10.3.6.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.3.6.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.4. MEA
10.4.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.4.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.4.3. GCC
10.4.3.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.4.3.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.4.4. North Africa
10.4.4.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.4.4.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.4.5. South Africa
10.4.5.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.4.5.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.4.6. Rest of MEA
10.4.6.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.4.6.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.5. Latin America
10.5.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.5.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.5.3. Brazil
10.5.3.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.5.3.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
10.5.4. Rest of LATAM
10.5.4.1. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Product (2020-2032)
10.5.4.2. Market Revenue and Forecast, by Application (2020-2032)
Chapter 11. Company Profiles
11.1. ACM Global Central Lab
11.1.1. Company Overview
11.1.2. Product Offerings
11.1.3. Financial Performance
11.1.4. Recent Initiatives
11.2. Barc Lab (Cerba Research)
11.2.1. Company Overview
11.2.2. Product Offerings
11.2.3. Financial Performance
11.2.4. Recent Initiatives
11.3. Bioscientia (Sonic Healthcare)
11.3.1. Company Overview
11.3.2. Product Offerings
11.3.3. Financial Performance
11.3.4. Recent Initiatives
11.4. Celerion
11.4.1. Company Overview
11.4.2. Product Offerings
11.4.3. Financial Performance
11.4.4. Recent Initiatives
11.5. CIRION BioPharma Research
11.5.1. Company Overview
11.5.2. Product Offerings
11.5.3. Financial Performance
11.5.4. Recent Initiatives
11.6. Clinical Reference Laboratory
11.6.1. Company Overview
11.6.2. Product Offerings
11.6.3. Financial Performance
11.6.4. Recent Initiatives
11.7. Lab Corp
11.7.1. Company Overview
11.7.2. Product Offerings
11.7.3. Financial Performance
11.7.4. Recent Initiatives
11.8. Eurofins Central Laboratory
11.8.1. Company Overview
11.8.2. Product Offerings
11.8.3. Financial Performance
11.8.4. Recent Initiatives
11.9. Frontage Laboratories, Inc
11.9.1. Company Overview
11.9.2. Product Offerings
11.9.3. Financial Performance
11.9.4. Recent Initiatives
11.10. icon central labs
11.10.1. Company Overview
11.10.2. Product Offerings
11.10.3. Financial Performance
11.10.4. Recent Initiatives
Chapter 12. Research Methodology
12.1. Primary Research
12.2. Secondary Research
12.3. Assumptions
Chapter 13. Appendix
13.1. About Us
13.2. Glossary of Terms