#Ireland #Life Sciences #WuXi Biologics #Dundalk #Operational Excellence

WuXi Biologics Ireland Honored with 2025 Operational Excellence Award

In an impressive recognition of its commitment to quality and sustainability, WuXi Biologics, a prominent global Contract Research, Development, and Manufacturing Organization (CRDMO), announced that its Ireland facility has secured the prestigious 2025 Operational Excellence in Life Sciences Award at the prominent Ireland Operational Excellence Awards. This accolade underscores the innovative and transformative initiatives underway at the company's Dundalk campus, which serves not only as a manufacturing hub but also symbolizes the firm’s dedication to process optimization and operational innovation.

WuXi Biologics’ Commitment to Excellence

Dr. Chris Chen, the CEO of WuXi Biologics, expressed pride in receiving this accolade, stating, "WuXi Biologics Ireland epitomizes our CRDMO+ strategy. This strategy is pivotal in enhancing our client success while fueling innovation and streamlining our global operations. The Ireland site represents a foundation of operational excellence and sustainability that continues to attract international partners and set a benchmark for biologics manufacturing worldwide."

The Ireland site, established in 2019, has rapidly evolved into a premier biopharmaceutical facility. Spanning 26 hectares, this location is home to three advanced drug substance manufacturing facilities: MFG6.1 and MFG6.2, which feature a combined 6,000L perfusion capacity, and MFG7, the company’s largest single-use fed-batch site with an impressive 48,000L capacity. Notably, all three facilities achieved GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) authorization from the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) in late 2024, allowing for the release of clinical and commercial drug substances to clients globally.

Innovative Manufacturing Techniques

The Dundalk facility has gained recognition for its robust commercial manufacturing capabilities, primarily through its use of single-use technology. This innovative approach delivers cost-effective manufacturing solutions, significantly reducing environmental impact. The adoption of single-use manufacturing can lead to cost of goods (COGs) akin to that of traditional stainless-steel systems, while achieving a remarkable 70% savings in water resources, a 33% reduction in resource consumption, and up to a 70% decrease in carbon footprint per gram of protein produced. This progress has allowed WuXi Biologics to address global client demands flexibly and sustainably.

In recent years, WuXi Biologics has successfully executed over 300 batches of scale-up production, expanding from 4,000L to 16,000L across its various sites with a remarkable 99% manufacturing success rate over three years.

Sustainable Operations and Achievements

The Ireland facility exemplifies sustainability in its daily operations, powered entirely by 100% certified renewable electricity. The implementation of rainwater harvesting systems has resulted in capturing over 1,100 cubic meters of water for reuse. Moreover, the site has invested in motion-controlled LED lighting, advanced building management systems, and incorporates passive daylighting techniques to reduce energy consumption substantially. Additionally, backup power operations utilize biofuel generators based on hydro-treated vegetable oils (HVO), enabling a 30% reduction in emissions. In response to climate challenges, a car-share program has been launched, supporting the reduction of Scope 3 emissions, complemented by the addition of 31 new electric vehicle charging stations on campus.

The WuXi Biologics Ireland site is certified with ISO standards, encompassing energy management (ISO 50001), environmental stewardship (ISO 14001), and occupational health and safety (ISO 45001).

These milestones reflect the strategic implementation of the WuXi Biologics Business System (WBS), initiated in 2021, focusing on continuous improvement and business advancement to ensure superior quality, swift delivery, and enhanced value.

Besides the recent Operational Excellence Award, the Ireland facility has received several other accolades, including the 2023 ISPE Facility of the Year Award (FOYA) and FDI's Grand Prix for both the "Best Regional Investment" and "Overall Business of the Year" at the 2024 Louth Business Awards.

About WuXi Biologics

WuXi Biologics (stock code 2269.HK) operates as a leading global CRDMO that delivers comprehensive solutions for partners involved in the discovery, development, and manufacturing of biologics, facilitating processes from initial concept to market launch for the benefit of patients across the globe. With over 12,000 skilled employees situated in major markets including China, the United States, Ireland, Germany, and Singapore, the organization utilizes advanced technologies and expertise to provide efficient and cost-effective biologics solutions. As of December 31, 2024, WuXi Biologics is actively supporting 817 integrated client projects, with 21 in commercial manufacturing.

Sustainability remains core to WuXi Biologics’ long-term business strategy, driving green technology innovations to deliver leading-edge Green CRDMO solutions. The company’s ongoing commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) standards reflects its dedication to fostering positive social and environmental outcomes while empowering holistic value chain practices.