#United States #UCB #Gwinnett County #Georgia Biologics

UCB Chooses Georgia for New Biologics Manufacturing Hub

UCB, the prominent biopharmaceutical company based in Brussels, has made a landmark decision to establish a new biologics manufacturing facility in Gwinnett County, Georgia. This strategic choice not only represents a substantial $5 billion investment but is also expected to generate approximately 330 permanent jobs, significantly boosting the local economy and reinforcing UCB's commitment to innovation in the healthcare sector.

The new campus, which will cover about 460,000 square feet, is positioned to play a vital role in UCB's global biologics manufacturing network. Designed to employ a digital-first approach, utilizing advanced technologies like AI, robotics, and automation, the facility is set to produce complex biologics continuously, catering primarily to the U.S. market. The combined strength of UCB's global infrastructure and this new facility will enhance supply chain resilience and meet the growing demand for biologics within the company's portfolio and pipeline.

Strategic Location in Rowen Development

UCB's selection of the Rowen Development site in Gwinnett County underscores a strategic effort to integrate within a master-planned innovation district. This location offers diverse advantages, including:

• - Access to strong infrastructure, conducive to advanced manufacturing processes
• - Efficient permitting processes that facilitate prompt development
• - Proximity to the Atlanta metropolitan area, which hosts renowned academic institutions like Georgia Tech and the University of Georgia, thus providing a rich talent pool in the sciences and engineering fields.

Governor Brian Kemp emphasized the significance of UCB’s decision, highlighting it as a promising development for Georgia's life sciences industry, marking one of the largest investments of its kind in the state’s history. He stated, “UCB's announcement represents a significant milestone for our life sciences industry and establishes Georgia as a true innovation hub.”

Economic Impact and Job Creation

The anticipated economic impact of UCB's new facility is profound, with predictions estimating around $5 billion in total economic benefits. This includes not only the creation of about 330 permanent, high-skilled positions, but also more than 1,000 construction jobs during the facility's development phase.

UCB's commitment to growth in the U.S. is evident in their historical success within the region. Since the establishment of their U.S. headquarters in Atlanta in 1993, UCB’s workforce has surged by 73%, demonstrating a robust focus on research and development, reflected in a 121% increase in R&D roles. The new facility exemplifies the company's dedication to providing innovative healthcare solutions, reaffirming their promise to bring effective medications closer to patients.

A Future of Innovation

This ambitious project signals UCB's unwavering confidence in its growth trajectory and its longstanding commitment to the United States, particularly in advancing patient care through innovative treatments. With 16 FDA approvals or indication expansions obtained in recent years, UCB's strategic investment in Georgia is poised to foster further scientific advancements and uplift the lives of many individuals facing severe health challenges.

With this new manufacturing facility, UCB aims to strengthen its operational capabilities and enhance the quality and accessibility of its biologics. As Taco van Tiel, Head of UCB in the U.S., stated, “This manufacturing site will support the commercial production of recently approved and future pipeline medicines, bringing them closer to patients.”

By establishing this facility, UCB reaffirms its position as a leader in biopharmaceutical innovation, fortifying its dedication to both sustainable growth and community engagement as they strive to elevate the quality of life for patients across the U.S.

For additional information, please contact UCB Investor Relations or visit UCB's official website.