By Gordon Rogers Staff Reporter A NEW £3m European headquarters for a world-leading manufacturer and supplier of biomedical research products is a vote of confidence in an Oxfordsire town, says the company's American president.

Tom Oland, head of R&D Systems, which is based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, opened the building at the Science Park in Barton Lane, Abingdon.

He said the company had considered moving to Milton Park at Cowley, even to Germany, but had decided to keep faith with its workforce in Abingdon.

He added: "We have been in Abingdon for many years and have built up a loyal and hard-working staff.

"We decided to move into better, purpose-built premises down the road from our former building. It is a vote of confidence in our workforce and the town."

Managing director Bob Carlson said: "It made sense to stay in Abingdon. We have an accomplished workforce, many of whom live in the town and who can walk or cycle to work. Abingdon plays a crucial role in our global network and we are optimistic about its future."

R&D Systems Abingdon is the main marketing and distribution centre for the products used in biomedical research. It employs 50 staff and more are to be recruited later this year.

Research and development is carried out in the company's Minneapolis base, and its European sales headquarters is in Wiesbaden, near Frankfurt. The distribution arm, originally part of Oxford-based British Biotech, was sold in 1993 to the US company. Since then R&D Systems has blossomed in Abingdon - profits rose from £800,000 four years ago to £4m last year.

Despite an economic slowdown in the US and fears of reduced activity in the UK and Europe, R&D has no qualms about investing in its Abingdon operation.

Mr Oland said: "We have a large market in the States that is doing well. It makes sense for us to continue our successful operations in the UK and continental Europe."

Abingdon mayor David Allinson said: "I am thrilled that R&D Systems has decided to keep faith with its Abingdon workforce.

"Though some old industries have gone, new and modern companies have grown up. R&D System's decision to expand here is good news."