Genentech, a member of the Roche Group broke ground on its newest US manufacturing site in Holly Springs, North Carolina. This significant development marks the establishment of Genentech’s first manufacturing facility on the East Coast. The 65,000 m² facility is strategically designed to support production of the company’s future portfolio of metabolic medicines, including next-generation treatments for obesity.

Genentech’s initial investment in North Carolina is estimated at more than $700 million and is part of Roche’s $50 billion commitment to invest in US manufacturing infrastructure and R&D. The facility will create more than 1,900 jobs.

Thomas Schinecker, Group CEO, Roche, said: “I am proud to break ground on our new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in North Carolina, which will support the production of our next-generation obesity treatments. This $700 million project is an integral part of our broader $50 billion commitment to further expand our already significant presence in the United States, building on our 120-year legacy of driving innovation and creating jobs across America. I am excited about the impact this facility will have on delivering life-changing medicines to patients in the US and around the world.”

The company selected Holly Springs in North Carolina, a growing hub for biopharmaceutical innovation, for its highly skilled local workforce, strong academic institutions and proximity to other leading life science companies.

The new facility is expected to be completed and operational by 2029, incorporating modern biomanufacturing technologies, as well as advanced automation and digital capabilities. The 400,000 m² lot includes space for future expansion.

Designed for high-volume, efficient, and sustainable production, the new facility will increase Roche’s manufacturing capacity and enhance supply chain resilience.