The pharmaceutical group Takeda announced on Wednesday its intention to invest more than 200 million francs in a new aseptic filling line and in the expansion of its biotechnological production site in Neuchâtel, with the creation of around forty jobs. Takeda notably produces recombinant therapies for the treatment of various forms of hemophilia in its Pierre-à-Bot plant.
“Our site in Neuchâtel is an essential component of our global production network,” said global head of production and supply Thomas Wozniewski, quoted in a press release. The Japanese giant listed on Wall Street insists that “the highest investment to date for this infrastructure attests to the importance of Switzerland as a long-term production site for the company”.
While 40 positions will be created in Neuchâtel, several adaptations should however see the light of day within the staff. Some functions are expected to evolve due to the modernization of automation processes.
The demand has increased
One of the major aspects that requires growth in production at the Neuchâtel site is linked to prophylaxis treatments, prescribed in the United States since last year. Since haemophilia problems can now be diagnosed earlier, this can lead to early medication intake. The demand for the product has therefore multiplied.
The installation of Takeda in Neuchâtel goes back three years, following the acquisition of the British Shire for 46 billion pounds (more than 57 billion francs at the time).
The 13,000 square meter factory located on the heights of the city, where some 700 employees of 22 different nationalities work, operates “24 hours a day, 7 days a week” and supplies more than 70 markets.
You should also know that since its arrival in the canton of Neuchâtel, Takeda has been training apprentices. According to officials, the site welcomes 6 new biotechnology apprentices each year. The first three will have completed their course this summer.
