Bioreactor Market

Global Bioreactor Market:

The global bioreactor market size reached USD 8.0 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 19.6 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 10.4% during 2025-2033. The increasing adoption of effective treatment drugs, along with the rising need for preventive vaccines, is primarily propelling the market.

Bioreactor Market Analysis:

• Major Market Drivers: The rising prevalence of chronic diseases, including diabetes and cancer, particularly among the geriatric population, is one of the factors bolstering the market. Moreover, the growing biopharmaceutical manufacturing capacities across various countries are also acting as significant growth-inducing factors.
• Key Market Trends: Numerous technological advancements, including the development of single-use bioreactors (SUBs) for optimizing the flexibility, quality, and scalability of the formation of microorganism operations with minimal cost and energy requirements, are among the emerging trends stimulating the overall market.
• Competitive Landscape: Some of the prominent companies in the global market include 2mag AG, bbi-biotech GmbH, Bioengineering AG, Eppendorf SE, Getinge AB, Infors AG, Merck KGaA, Pall Corporation (Danaher Corporation), Sartorius AG, Solaris Biotechnology Srl, and Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., among many others.
• Geographical Trends: North America currently exhibits a clear dominance in the market, on account of the region's strong emphasis on R&D activities. Apart from this, the launch of favorable policies by government bodies to support sustainable and cost-effective production methods is further creating a positive outcome for the market.
• Challenges and Opportunities: The elevating concerns among industry players regarding consistent product quality and scalability are hindering the market growth. However, the increasing integration of advanced monitoring and control technologies to optimize bioprocesses and enhance reproducibility will continue to catalyze the global market over the forecasted period.
   

Bioreactor Market Trends:

Usage of Single-Use Bioreactors

Single-use bioreactors (SUBs) are gaining extensive popularity, owing to their benefits, such as flexibility, cost-effectiveness, reduced risk of contamination, etc. This, in turn, is stimulating the market. According to the IMARC, the global single-use bioreactors market size reached US$ 3.4 Billion in 2023. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 11.1 Billion by 2032, thereby exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 13.8% during 2024-2032. Moreover, unlike traditional stainless-steel bioreactors, SUBs adopt disposable bags, which aids in eliminating the need for extensive cleaning and sterilization between batches. In December 2023, Cellexus introduced airlift single-use disposable bioreactor systems that offer optimal aeration for the rapid growth of cells. This method of gentle agitation is usually suitable for microbial fermentation and cell culture. Besides this, key players are also producing innovative SUB designs, catering to both small-scale research and large-scale production needs, which is fueling the bioreactor market outlook. For instance, in February 2024, the contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), WuXi Biologics, announced the construction of a single-use site with approximately 54,000 L of disposable bioreactor capacity via an investment of roughly €325 Million in Ireland. Additionally, in March 2024, Thermo Fisher Scientific™ launched a series of application-specific enhancements to the HyPerforma™ single-use bioreactor (SUB) product platform, each tailored to the unique requirements of intensified fed-batch, perfusion, and adherent cell cultures. Similarly, in March 2024, Distek, Inc. unveiled a single-use bioreactor (SUB) system for mammalian cell growth and recombinant protein production. Furthermore, continuous collaborations among prominent companies are projected to augment the market in the coming years. For example, in June 2024, Aragen Bioscience and Getinge announced the successful validation of the latter's single-use production reactors (SUPR). In line with this, the collaboration combined Getinge's innovative single-use technology and Aragen's expertise in biopharmaceutical manufacturing.

Advancements in Automation

The widespread integration of novel control systems and automation with bioreactors is revolutionizing bioprocessing by enabling precise control over critical parameters, such as pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, etc., and real-time monitoring. This is acting as a significant growth-inducing factor. For instance, in August 2023, Repligen Corporation and Sartorius introduced an integrated bioreactor system that comprises a fully compatible embedded XCell ATF software and hardware module offering predefined advanced control recipes with integrated process analytical technology (PAT). Additionally, the system aims to provide users with a streamlined way to control cell growth and enhance cell retention in perfusion processes without utilizing a separate cell retention control tower. Besides this, in September 2023, Automated Control Concepts (ACC), one of the innovators in biotechnology solutions, released its cutting-edge bioreactor control and data platform, Lab Owl, that allows for adjustment of multiple process parameters and precise monitoring, resulting in consistent and reproducible outcomes. Apart from this, in December 2023, Cultzyme launched a bioreactor intelligent operative nanotechnology (BION) system equipped with AI, hardware, and cloud computing to control the biomanufacturing process and achieve consistent outcomes more efficiently and at minimal costs. Furthermore, the escalating demand for advanced control systems, as they facilitate seamless scale-up from laboratory to production scale, which aids in ensuring consistent performance across numerous bioreactor sizes, is also increasing the bioreactor market revenue. For instance, in April 2024, Culture Biosciences created bioreactors with advanced control systems and real-time monitoring capabilities designed to accommodate Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells.

Development of Sustainable Bioprocessing

Sustainability is becoming a critical consideration in the market. Prominent players are focusing on minimizing energy consumption and waste generation, which is stimulating the market growth. In October 2023, a team of researchers at the Nara Institute of Science and Technology and Fujita University introduced a hybrid in silico/in-cell controller (HISICC) that seamlessly integrates computerized feedforward control with genetically modified living cells, offering the potential for cost-effective and eco-friendly chemical and fuel production. Besides this, in November 2023, ADM and Solugen formed a strategic partnership to build an approximately 500,000-ft² biomanufacturing facility to develop molecules to replace existing fossil fuel-based materials and scale its line of lower-carbon organic acids. Moreover, bioreactor manufacturers are investing in several innovations in bioreactor design, such as more efficient mixing and aeration systems, which is elevating the popularity of greener bioprocessing solutions. For example, Boehringer Ingelheim offers bioprocess technology operations in animal health with an improved focus on environmental sustainability. In line with this, from continuously discussing and evaluating current practices to optimizing process chains for antigenic biological manufacturing, the company is strongly committed to minimizing its environmental footprint. Additionally, in March 2024, the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) announced 21 cross-sector collaborations to drive advancements in sustainable biomanufacturing across the country.

Global Bioreactor Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the market, along with the bioreactor market forecast at the global, regional, and country levels for 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on the type, usage, scale, and control type.

Breakup by Type:

• Glass
• Stainless Steel
• Single-Use
   

Among these, single-use currently exhibit a clear dominance in the market

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the type. This includes glass, stainless steel, and single-use. According to the report, single-use represented the largest market segmentation.

A single-use bioreactor (SUB) is widely utilized, as it is flexible and easy to use and install. Moreover, it minimizes the risk of cross-contamination, reduces labor costs, eliminates the cleaning process and validation issues, etc., thereby propelling the segment's growth. For example, in March 2024, ABEC introduced a single-use bioreactor system for cell culture production. Additionally, in February 2024, MilliporeSigma developed three Mobius® products that deliver improved efficiency and ease of use for biopharmaceutical manufacturing workflows. In line with this, variants include a 2000-liter mixing system for difficult-to-mix biopharm ingredients, a single-use bioreactor with an industry-leading design, and a liquid transport system for non-aseptic and aseptic substances.

Breakup by Usage:

• Lab-Scale Production
• Pilot-Scale Production
• Full-Scale Production
   

Currently, pilot-scale production holds the largest bioreactor market share

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the usage. This includes lab-scale production, pilot-scale production, and full-scale production. According to the report, pilot-scale production represented the largest market segmentation.

Pilot-scale production in bioreactors serves as a crucial intermediary step between laboratory research and full-scale manufacturing in the biopharmaceutical industry. This phase allows for the optimization of bioprocesses on a scale that closely mimics commercial production, providing valuable insights into process performance, scalability, and reproducibility. Pilot-scale bioreactors typically range from 50 to 500 liters in capacity. For instance, in January 2024, San Francisco-based SciFi Foods announced the successful completion of its first commercial bioreactor facility in San Leandro, California. They are used to test and refine production parameters such as cell growth, nutrient consumption, and product yield under conditions that replicate those of large-scale operations. Additionally, pilot-scale production facilitates regulatory compliance by generating data required for process validation and quality assurance. Companies like GE Healthcare and Sartorius offer advanced pilot-scale bioreactor systems equipped with sophisticated monitoring and control technologies, enabling precise control over critical process parameters and ensuring a seamless transition to large-scale manufacturing.

Breakup by Scale:

• 5L-20L
• 20L-200L
• 200L-1500L
• Above 1500L
   

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the scale. This includes 5l-20l, 20l-200l, 200l-1500l, and above 1500l.

Bioreactors are designed in various scales to meet the needs of different stages of bioprocessing, from research and development to full-scale commercial production. Small-scale bioreactors, typically ranging from 5L to 20L, are primarily used in laboratory settings for early-stage research, process development, and small-batch production. As per the bioreactor market statistics, they are essential for optimizing cell culture conditions and conducting preliminary studies. Medium-scale bioreactors, with capacities between 20L and 200L, serve as a bridge between laboratory research and pilot-scale production, allowing for the refinement of bioprocesses and scaling up experiments to a semi-industrial level. Bioreactors in the 200L to 1500L range are used for pilot-scale production, providing a realistic simulation of commercial-scale operations and facilitating the validation of production processes. Finally, bioreactors with capacities above 1500L are employed in full-scale commercial production, capable of producing large volumes of biologics, vaccines, and other biopharmaceutical products. For instance, in March 2024, Syngene International, a global contract research, development, and manufacturing organization (CRDMO), introduced a biologics facility with five 2000L single-use bioreactors in Bangalore, India.

Breakup by Control Type:

• Manual
• Automated
   

Currently, automated holds the largest bioreactor market share

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the control type. This includes manual and automated. According to the report, automated represented the largest market segmentation.

Automated bioreactors are revolutionizing bioprocessing by integrating advanced control systems that enhance precision, efficiency, and scalability. They allow for real-time monitoring and control of critical parameters, including temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, etc. The system's automation capabilities minimize human intervention, thereby reducing the risk of contamination and errors while optimizing cell growth and product yield. For example, in May 2024, a team of researchers at Florida International University developed an automated 3D-printed bioreactor to grow bone in the lab. Additionally, biopharmaceutical manufacturers offer versatile and robust solutions to enhance productivity and maintain high standards of quality and compliance. For instance, in September 2023, Automated Control Concepts (ACC), one of the leading innovators in biotechnology solutions, announced the development of its cutting-edge bioreactor control and data platform, Lab Owl, to redefine the landscape of bioprocessing.

Breakup by Region:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia-Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa
   

North America currently dominates the market

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include North America (the United States and Canada); Asia Pacific (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, and others); Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, and others); Latin America (Brazil, Mexico, and others); and the Middle East and Africa. According to the report, North America accounted for the largest market share. 

The North America bioreactor market is witnessing robust growth, fueled by the region's strong emphasis on biopharmaceutical research, development, and manufacturing. Additionally, advancements in bioprocessing technologies, such as single-use bioreactors and automation, are enhancing the efficiency and scalability of biomanufacturing processes. The presence of major pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, coupled with supportive government initiatives and funding, is further propelling the bioreactor market demand. In February 2024, Thermo Fisher Scientific expanded its manufacturing capacity at its Missouri, U.S. site to produce complex biologic treatments for a range of diseases, including cancer, autoimmune conditions, and rare disorders. Furthermore, the North America bioreactor market is poised for continued growth, driven by technological advancements and increasing biopharmaceutical production demands. For instance, in March 2023, Micro Digital Co. signed a formal contract to supply bioreactors to expand its presence in North America.

Competitive Landscape:

The bioreactor market research report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided. Some of the key players in the market include:

• 2mag AG
• bbi-biotech GmbH
• Bioengineering AG
• Eppendorf SE
• Getinge AB
• Infors AG
• Merck KGaA
• Pall Corporation (Danaher Corporation)
• Sartorius AG
• Solaris Biotechnology Srl
• Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
   

 (Please note that this is only a partial list of the key players, and the complete list is provided in the report.)

Bioreactor Market Recent Developments:

• June 2024: Aragen Bioscience and Getinge announced the successful validation of the latter's single-use production reactors (SUPR) for large-scale recombinant antibody manufacturing.
• May 2024: Multiply Labs, one of the robotics companies developing automated manufacturing systems to produce individualized drugs, and Wilson Wolf collaborated to automate Wilson Wolf's G-Rex® bioreactors for cell therapy manufacturing.
• May 2024: A team of researchers at Florida International University introduced an automated 3D-printed bioreactor to grow bone in the lab.

Bioreactor Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the bioreactor market from 2019-2033.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global bioreactor market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the bioreactor industry and its attractiveness.
• The competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides insight into the current positions of key players in the market.