Pfizer UK will invest US$6.3 million in advanced paediatric manufacturing at its Discovery Park site in Sandwich, Kent. This is the latest in the pharma giant’s series of manufacturing and innovation investments on the site, totalling $45.5m since 2018.
Today’s investment will enhance Pfizer’s patient-centric design and manufacturing capability for paediatric medicines in clinical trials. The sum will cover the cost of a highly-specialised novel manufacturing technology. This will enable scientists to explore innovative ways to make medicines more palatable with flexible dosing for children, amplifying the company’s patient-first approach.
This investment underscores the special connection Pfizer holds with the local Kent area and has lead to renewed growth and 80 new scientific jobs.
Julian Thompson, VP of Global Regulatory Operations and Sandwich Site Head at Pfizer UK, said: “Since 1954, our site at Sandwich has played a crucial role in the development of new, life-saving medicines. This investment demonstrates Pfizer’s continuing focus on innovation in advanced manufacturing and highlights our patient first approach.”
The local economy is also set to benefit. An additional $6.3m of funding has been unlocked from Kent County Council through the East Kent Growth Fund which was established in 2012 to help investors grow businesses and create new jobs in the area.
Paul Carter, Leader and Cabinet Member for Health Reform for Kent County Council said: “This builds on efforts made by KCC and partners in the Sandwich task force, which helped to secure the site over the last seven years and has grown business investment.
“Our investment, coupled with Pfizer’s ongoing contribution to the site and surrounding life sciences community, will boost Kent’s position as a centre for scientific excellence in the UK. We are pleased to be working together with Pfizer, Kent’s universities and other key partners in the Kent economy to develop this initiative,” Carter added.
