Pfizer has opened a new biotechnological production facility in Straengnaes, Sweden.
The drugmaker has invested approximately Euro 150m in the 6,000m2 plant, which will be linked to an existing factory, opened in the 1950s, to facilitate the flow of materials and personnel until the production is completely transferred.
"Biologics hold tremendous promise in changing the way patients are treated and diseases prevented," said Dr Rory O'Connor, vp of medical affairs at Pfizer Europe. "In addition to our existing focus on biotechnology in research and development, with this cutting-edge manufacturing facility the company is making a further strong commitment to bringing medical solutions to people in need of effective treatments."
The new facility will be used to make active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) for Pfizer's human growth hormone for a global market and will also produce a therapy for the treatment of acromegaly. In addition, the site will focus on the cultivation of E.coli for protein production and will enable the rapid introduction of more therapies based on E.coli and yeast. It will be fully operational in 2011.
It is Sweden's largest site for the production of biotechnological pharmaceuticals and will employ 250 people.
Nat Ricciardi, president of Pfizer global manufacturing, added: "Pfizer's decision to invest in this facility in Straengnaes is based upon the competence and experience accumulated there and confirms that Sweden will continue to play an important role in Pfizer's global production network."