In the spring of 2016, VBC announced its plans for the construction of a state-of-the-art Biorational Research Center (BRC), and in July of 2018, this now-completed facility opened its doors to at a Grand Opening gala in Libertyville, IL.

More than 250 guests, ranging from the Deputy Governor of the State of Illinois, to strategic partners, customers, allied industry representatives, and leading members of the scientific community gathered to join Grand Opening festivities and tour the 85,000 square-foot facility adjacent to the company’s long-time corporate headquarters.

The opening of the BRC completes a transition from VBC’s legacy research facility in nearby Long Grove, IL which includes technological upgrades and purpose-driven design. The move is intended to further streamline cross-functional collaboration among VBC’s industry-leading team of innovative plant, soil, and formulation scientists, microbiologists, entomologists, and chemists – a team that brings best-in-class solutions to agriculture, public health, and forest health professionals around the world.

At the Grand Opening, guests toured the facility moving between different stations placed throughout laboratory spaces. The stops ranged from broad Business Unit topics like Soil Health and Public Health to specific research and development (R&D) processes including Chemistry and Formulations.

The Grand Opening concluded with a ceremonial tree planting in the courtyard area of the new facility. Attendees were invited to contribute by placing a handful of soil on the newly planted tree that will grow with the facility for years to come.

If you are in the Chicagoland area and are interested in seeing the new facility, tours can be arranged through your VBC Public Health sales representative.