Genentech, a member of the Roche Group based in Switzerland, has announced plans to invest $700 million in Holly Springs to establish a new high-volume fill/finish manufacturing facility. This initiative is expected to create 420 jobs and marks Genentech’s first investment in North Carolina.
Governor Josh Stein expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, “World-class companies like Genentech recognize that North Carolina is a leading state for biotechnology. These companies know that our life science workforce is ready to help them deliver their cutting-edge medicines to the world. We are proud to welcome Genentech to North Carolina.”
This announcement follows Genentech’s previous declaration of investing $50 billion in new research and development sites and expanded manufacturing facilities across several states, including Indiana, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and California. The new site in Holly Springs adds to this expansion plan.
Paul Bezy, Global Leader of Roche’s High Volume Technical Operations Portfolio, explained the decision: “Genentech is the industry pioneer in high-volume biopharmaceutical manufacturing and we know what it takes to supply these complex medicines. We selected Holly Springs for the combination of proximity to talent, and high quality of life that supports attracting and retaining the right people.”
The addition of Genentech enhances an already thriving life science ecosystem in North Carolina’s Triangle region, which hosts over 600 life science operations. Wake County Board of Commissioners Chair Susan Evans commented on this development: “Bringing this well-known and highly respected company to Wake County further elevates our position as the top hub for biotech research and manufacturing worldwide.”
The economic impact on Wake County is projected at $1.2 billion with an estimated support of 4,578 direct, indirect, and induced jobs resulting from this project.
Holly Springs Mayor Sean Mayefskie welcomed Genentech’s presence: “Residents and small businesses in Holly Springs welcome the addition of Genentech to our growing family of life science businesses.” He noted how strategic planning has positioned Holly Springs as an attractive location for such industries.
Fill/finish facilities like the one planned by Genentech play a crucial role in biomanufacturing by handling the final stages where medical devices are filled with biopharmaceutical products before being packaged for distribution. This facility will diversify job opportunities within Holly Springs’ existing life science industry.
To discuss this significant investment further, partners involved will hold a news conference today at 10 a.m. at the NC Biotech Center in Durham.
