Eli Lilly, Johnson & Johnson Invest in New Drug Manufacturing Facilities

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Eli Lilly and Johnson & Johnson (J&J) have both announced major investments in advanced drug manufacturing to drive innovation and bolster their production capacities for clinical trials and novel therapies.^1,2 This morning, Lilly revealed that its $4.5 billion investment will be used to create the Lilly Medicine Foundry, which is described as a new center for advanced manufacturing and development of new products. Based in Lebanon, Indiana, the new facility will work to develop new manufacturing techniques for small molecules, biologics, and nucleic acid therapies, aiming to accelerate the delivery of next-generation medicines.¹

"As we accelerate our work to discover new medicines for the toughest diseases, we're continuing to invest in state-of-the-art infrastructure to support our growing pipeline," said David A. Ricks, chair, CEO, Lilly, in a press release. "In addition to supplying high-quality medicine for our clinical studies, this new complex will further strengthen our process development and scale up our manufacturing capabilities to speed delivery of next-generation medicines to patients around the world."

According to Lilly, the state of Indiana will support the new site with infrastructure improvements for roads, water, electricity, and other utilities. Additionally, Indiana will provide a number of other economic incentives connected to investment and employment goals in Lebanon. The Foundry is expected to create 400 highly skilled jobs and strengthen collaboration between Lilly’s research and manufacturing teams.¹

"Lilly's continued investment in Indiana solidifies our state's role as a hub for cutting-edge science and technology," said Eric J. Holcomb, Governor of Indiana, in the press release. "For nearly 150 years, Lilly has been committed to growing its roots and reach in Indiana, cultivating local talent, and driving scientific advancements that benefit patients around the world. I couldn't be more excited about the opportunities Lilly's Medicine Foundry will bring to communities throughout our great state."

Lilly also stated that the new medicine foundry will also enable further development of solutions to optimize manufacturing processes and increase capacity for clinical trial medicines. Further, it is expected to result in reduced costs and environmental impact and provide the ability to produce various molecular therapies such as drug substances for small molecules, biologics, and nucleic acid therapies.¹

"Lilly's increased investment in Indiana is creating tremendous new career opportunities for Hoosiers," said David Rosenberg, Indiana Secretary of Commerce, in the press release. "The LEAP district in Lebanon is quickly becoming an international destination, with $18 billion in committed capital investment on 2,300 acres since its launch in 2022. LEAP and the Hardtech Corridor are attracting global leaders, talent and innovation to Indiana."

Similarly, J&J announced a $2 billion investment toward building a biologics manufacturing facility in Wilson, North Carolina. According to the company, this facility will enhance production for its portfolio of biologic medicines, including treatments in oncology, immunology, and neuroscience. Aiming to support over 70 new therapies and product launches by the end of the decade, this new facility will employ 420 employees with the goal of securing a resilient global medication supply chain, according to J&J. Construction is expected to begin in the first half of next year.²

“A strong, global supply chain is crucial, and we purposefully invest to ensure our transformational medicines reliably and efficiently reach patients around the world,” said Dapo Ajayi, VP, innovative medicine supply chain, J&J, in a press release. “We are investing in capacity and new technologies to enhance our industry leading capabilities and ensure a resilient supply chain for the future. North Carolina is an important hub for biopharmaceutical manufacturing and talent, and we are pleased to join this thriving life sciences ecosystem and become part of the Wilson community.”

References

1. Lilly announces new $4.5 billion site - the Lilly Medicine Foundry - to drive innovation in drug production and make medicines for clinical trials. Lilly. October 2, 2024. Accessed October 2, 2024. https://investor.lilly.com/news-releases/news-release-details/lilly-announces-new-45-billion-site-lilly-medicine-foundry-drive

2. Johnson & Johnson to invest more than $2 billion in new, advanced technology manufacturing facility in North Carolina to support robust portfolio growth. J&J. October 1, 2024. Accessed October 2, 2024. https://www.jnj.com/media-center/press-releases/johnson-johnson-to-invest-more-than-2-billion-in-new-advanced-technology-manufacturing-facility-in-north-carolina-to-support-robust-portfolio-growth