About us
We are one of the UK’s longest established and leading specialists in the design, manufacture and installation of bespoke Educational and Commercial laboratory furniture, Fume cupboards and associated services.
We have over 50 years’ experience of converting old fashioned, uninspiring learning and lab engineering spaces into smart, modern and highly functional contemporary educational and industrial laboratories.
The sustained growth in our contemporary designs together with our international experience and exceptional overseas sales has enabled us to win the Queen’s Award for Enterprise: International Trade. This award is the UK’s highest accolade for business success with winners selected by the Prime Minister’s office and approved by Her Majesty the Queen.
Our
history
SB Labs is a leading provider of laboratory furniture and solutions with a distinguished history dating back to 1899. Founded in Holland as a manufacturer of commercial board furniture, the company established a reputation for quality and innovation. This longstanding history ensures that SB Labs remains at the forefront of laboratory solutions for generations to come.
1899
S+B Laboratories (now SB Labs) has a history spanning well over a century
Originally founded in Holland in 1899 as a manufacturer of commercial board furniture, the company steadily developed a reputation for quality before moving into ship panelling by 1910.
1955
The evolution and innovation in laboratory furniture and fume cupboard design
In 1955 we turned our attention to laboratory interiors and never looked back. Our breakthrough year was 1959 with the design of the first SB Fume cupboard, laying the groundwork for a legacy in laboratory safety and engineering.
1996
UK expansion
In 1996 we cemented our UK presence by acquiring EFM, establishing SB UK Ltd. Rapid growth and independence followed, notably with a major expansion in 2015 and recognition as one of the UK’s leading manufacturers and end-to-end consultancy, design and installation of bespoke laboratories.
2016 & 2022
Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade
Twice receiving the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade (2016 and 2022) is a testament to our sustained excellence and exporting prowess. Our strong reputation, international portfolio and a forward-thinking ethos stands us positioned at the forefront of the industry.
2025
New name new chapter
In 2025, we rebranded as SB Labs with a refreshed brand identity and modern website to mark a bold new chapter for the business. The rebranding reflects the company’s continued commitment to innovation, sustainability and user-focused design in laboratory solutions.
Meet the team
A highly experienced, multidisciplinary team responsible for the company’s success as a leader in laboratory and educational furniture solutions. Together, the SB Labs team combines decades of industry knowledge with a client-focused approach, enabling the company to deliver innovative, flexible, and high-quality laboratory environments across education, research, and industrial sectors.
Made in the UK
At SB Labs, our commitment to excellence is deeply rooted in our British heritage. Our production embodies the values of British manufacturing: reliability, innovation, and craftsmanship. Delivering the most engaging and stimulating spaces to learn and research to meet the exact needs of modern laboratories.
