01 October 2024 | Tuesday | News
Piramal Pharma Solutions (PPS), a leading global Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) and part of Piramal Pharma Ltd. (NSE: PPLPHARMA) (BSE: 543635), has unveiled an $80M investment plan to expand its Lexington, Kentucky facility. The site specializes in sterile compounding, liquid filling, and lyophilization for sterile injectable drug products, playing a vital role in Piramal Pharma Solutions integrated antibody-drug conjugate development and manufacturing program, ADCelerate™. The investment, financed by bank loans and internal accruals, aims to enhance the site's existing capacity and capabilities to meet the demands of a rapidly growing market. With this expansion, Piramal Pharma will strengthen its position as an efficient and reliable global partner for biologic manufacturing, leveraging deep scientific expertise and extensive experience managing complex technical projects.
The expansion will equip the Lexington site with an additional 24,000 square feet of manufacturing space, a new laboratory, and state-of-the-art machinery to scale clients' products effectively. Key additions include a new filling line, two commercial-size lyophilizers, a special capping machine, and an external vial washer. Currently, the Lexington site can manufacture 104 product batches per year (utilization at peak levels). Upon completion of the expansion in Q1 of 2027, this capacity will increase to over 240 annual batches.
"This expansion represents a strategic investment in the future of Piramal Pharma Ltd. Filling the commercial manufacturing gap enables the Lexington site to access the rapidly expanding injectables market and establish itself as a key player in the segment," said Nandini Piramal, Chairperson, Piramal Pharma Ltd.
Significant research, development, and scientific innovation have driven rapid growth in the injectables market, with an expected market value exceeding $20B by 2028. This growth underscores the necessity for robust commercial-scale manufacturing capabilities.
As the efficiency and efficacy of injectable treatment options improve, more patients will benefit from these advanced therapies.
"The injectables market has steadily increased in recent years and there is currently insufficient supply. We are committed to adapting to meet this rising demand," said Peter DeYoung, Chief Executive Officer, Global Pharma. "This expansion will significantly enhance the capacity and capabilities of our Lexington facility, positioning Piramal Pharma as a comprehensive partner across the entire product life cycle and enabling us to provide treatment solutions to more patients."
A number of clients have committed to commercializing their products at the Lexington site following the expansion, marking a significant milestone in Piramal Pharma's ability to deliver innovative solutions with exceptional, white-glove, science-based service to customers on a larger scale.
The investment not only fuels Piramal Pharma's growth but also strengthens the local economy. The expansion will create over 40 full-time jobs, contributing to the area's economic development and fostering a diverse, vibrant workforce.
"Kentucky's business-friendly climate, prime location and access to resources make it an ideal destination for companies to locate, expand and thrive," said Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear. "The decision by Piramal Pharma Solutions' leadership to expand and reinvest here is a testament to their trust and belief in what this great state has to offer. I want to thank the Company's leaders and wish Piramal Pharma continued success in Lexington."
Bob Quick, President and CEO of Commerce Lexington Inc., added, "Piramal Pharma Solutions' decision to expand its Lexington operations is a significant step forward for our region's economic growth. This investment not only demonstrates Piramal Pharma's confidence in our community and workforce but also underscores Lexington's position as a prime location for innovative companies to grow and thrive. We look forward to the positive impact this expansion will have on our local economy and the new opportunities it will create for our residents."
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