Schott TOPPAC® pre-fillable polymer syringes allow for deep cold storage of drugs at -80°C, enabling administration of mRNA vaccines and other biologic therapies. (Photo: Business Wire)
Schott Pharma is planning to build a new pre-fillable syringe manufacturing facility in North Carolina
RYE BROOK, N.Y.—Schott Pharma is planning to build a new manufacturing facility in Wilson, North Carolina, that will expand the U.S. supply chain for in-demand syringes that deliver lifesaving injectable medicines and vaccines. It will reportedly be the first U.S. facility produce pre-fillable polymer syringes that meet the need for deep-cold storage and transportation of mRNA medications, the company said in a release.
The planned site will also have capabilities to produce glass pre-fillable syringes for GLP-1 therapies, including those used to treat diabetes or obesity. The project is expected to add some 400 jobs to the region and include a total investment of $371 million. It is supported by $21 million in state and local incentive awards. Groundbreaking is expected by the end of 2024, with projected operations starting in 2027, the company said.
A rendering of the planned Schott Pharma manufacturing facility in Wilson, North Carolina. (Photo: Business Wire)
Schott Pharma envisions the site will enable the company to triple its contribution of glass and polymer syringes to the U.S. market by 2030. Bringing production to the U.S. will reduce lead times and slash transportation costs, as well as protect against future shortages of critical drugs and ensure pandemic preparedness.
“As drug manufacturers develop and expand the use of mRNA, GLP-1, and other biologic therapies that require precise drug stability and storage properties, Schott Pharma will be able to fill those orders quickly and efficiently here in the U.S.,” said Schott Pharma CEO Andreas Reisse, in the release. “The impact of this facility will go far beyond local job creation in North Carolina and will relieve stress on the entire pharmaceutical industry supply chain.”
Schott Pharma commissioned a nationwide site selection process for a campus-like property to serve further growth opportunities. Although Schott is not guaranteeing additional investment to support other markets at this time, the company said the site in Wilson, North Carolina offers the possibility of future expansion. The project location is contingent on final real estate negotiations.
“Wilson County stood out in a nationwide search for a number of reasons, particularly for its favorable pool of local talent and its proximity to the Research Triangle area, which hosts numerous universities, healthcare companies, and biopharma resources,” said Schott North America President Christopher Cassidy, in the release. “Expanding operations in the U.S. addresses rapidly growing demand for our high-value solutions.”