Reckitt Benckiser Unveils Its Largest OTC Facility in the U.S. to Boost Mucinex Production

Reckitt Benckiser Starts Production at its Largest OTC Facility in the U.S.

In a significant expansion of its manufacturing capabilities, Reckitt Benckiser Group Plc has announced the acquisition of a pharmaceutical site in Wilson, North Carolina. This strategic move responds to the surging demand for Mucinex® products, which have become essential for consumers seeking relief from cold and flu symptoms. With an investment of approximately £155 million ($200 million), this facility is set to become Reckitt's largest over-the-counter (OTC) production site in the United States.

Addressing Increased Consumer Demand

Mucinex stands out as Reckitt’s leading OTC product in the U.S. market. The pandemic has created a paradigm shift in the seasonality of respiratory illnesses, urging the company to ramp up production significantly. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults typically experience two to three colds annually, with children affected even more frequently. With the flu season alone leading to around 40 million illnesses recently, Reckitt's new site is anticipated to enhance the accessibility of Mucinex, catering to both seasonal and off-season health crises.

Harald Emberger, Reckitt's Chief Supply Officer, emphasized the importance of this facility in bolstering the supply chain to meet the heightened consumer demand. He stated, "With the rise in demand for cold and flu relief, we are taking action to expand access to our products and build a more resilient supply chain."

Features of the New Facility

The new factory, comprising roughly 310,000 square feet, will initially focus on producing a variety of Mucinex tablets and liquids. However, it is also designed to accommodate future products, including offerings like Move Free® and Biofreeze®. The strategic location near the Research Triangle, a renowned hub for life sciences, ensures that Reckitt's manufacturing processes are not only efficient but also innovative, allowing for agility in responding to market needs.

In addition to strengthening production capabilities, the Wilson facility is expected to create nearly 300 new jobs, contributing to the local economy. This job creation extends beyond direct manufacturing roles, as opportunities will arise in areas such as construction, engineering, and transportation.

Responding to Health Trends

The shifting landscape of respiratory infections post-COVID-19 has made the demand for effective over-the-counter medicines more unpredictable. Reckitt's investment in this facility is a proactive measure in preparation for future market fluctuations that may arise during both peak and off-peak seasons. Furthermore, Reckitt aims to deliver innovative new products, enhancing options for consumers dealing with persistent coughs and other respiratory symptoms.

Chris Tedesco, Senior Vice President of Health for North America at Reckitt, underpinning the commitment to innovation, remarked, "The factory in Wilson enables us to increase access and meet future demand during in-season and off-season surges."

Conclusion

As Reckitt Benckiser opens this new OTC manufacturing facility, it not only reinforces its commitment to consumer health and wellness but also aims to ensure that high-quality healthcare products are readily available to those in need. With plans for expanding product lines and investing in local job creation, this initiative may set a new benchmark for pharmaceutical manufacturing in the U.S.

For more details about Reckitt and its product range, you can visit Reckitt's official website.