Dive Brief:
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Investment in South Carolina: Switzerland-based Octapharma has announced plans to invest $1.5 billion in establishing its first U.S. biopharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Rock Hill, South Carolina.
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Economic Impact: The 50-acre campus is projected to create 1,500 jobs and is considered one of South Carolina’s largest private biomedical investments.
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Timeline: Operations are expected to commence in the mid-2030s. The project will also include an administrative campus for plasma donation.
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Support from State: South Carolina’s economic development council has approved job development credits and awarded a $65 million grant for site preparation and infrastructure improvements.
Dive Insight:
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Company Overview: Founded in 1983, Octapharma operates more than 40 manufacturing sites globally, with U.S. offices in Paramus, New Jersey, and Charlotte, North Carolina.
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Location Choice: Octapharma selected South Carolina for its logistics access, deep-water ports, and strong workforce development from local educational institutions.
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Future Growth: CEO Wolfgang Marguerre emphasized expectations for growth driven by existing therapies and new product pipelines, stating the facility will be a key milestone.
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Facility Location: The plant will be situated within Rock Hill’s Palmetto Research Park, a significant technology and life sciences hub, and a 25-acre medical campus is also planned nearby by Novant Health.
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Production Capacity: Details on potential production capacity remain unclear as the project is in planning, with insights expected after construction and equipment procurement begin.
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Industry Context: This investment aligns with a broader trend of international biomedical firms expanding in the U.S. amid trade pressures and a push for onshoring manufacturing capabilities.
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National Security: Marguerre noted the critical importance of domestic production for national security in supplying therapies.
This initiative underscores Octapharma’s commitment to expanding its operational footprint in the U.S. while contributing to local economic growth and job creation.
