Biotech company announces €60m expansion of  Cork plant

An American biotechnology company has announced a €60m expansion of its Cork plant, its only manufacturing facility outside of the United States.

BioMarin Pharmaceutical, which employs more than 500 people at its plant at Shanbally and at its commercial office in Dublin, has said the addition of a new, four-story laboratory facility will enable the company to increase production capacity for currently approved medicines and create room for future growth.

This will be the second major expansion of the Shanbally site by the company, which has been in Ireland for 13 years, and develops and commercialises targeted therapies that address the root causes of genetic conditions.

BioMarin opened an aseptic production facility there last year, a four-year build that enabled increased production of commercial and clinical products.

The Shanbally plant has end-to-end manufacturing capabilities, producing medicines from bulk drug substance to drug product to final packaging.

Founded in 1997, BioMarin’s research and development capabilities have resulted in eight transformational commercial therapies for patients with rare genetic disorders.

Evelyn Marchany Garcia, senior vice president at BioMarin Pharmaceutical, said the latest investment reflected the company’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its manufacturing capabilities and supporting the growth of innovative medicines for people living with rare conditions around the world.

“The Shanbally facility plays a crucial role in our global network, and this expansion emphasises our confidence in Ireland’s skilled workforce and the strategic importance of this site to BioMarin’s long-term success,” she said.

Welcoming the announcement of the investment, Aaron Mansworth, president of the Cork Business Association, said it underscored the strength of Cork as a hub for innovation and global business.

“While BioMarin’s facility is located in the county, its impact will be felt across the entire region, driving economic growth, creating high-value jobs, and enhancing Cork’s reputation as a leader in the life sciences sector.

“We applaud BioMarin’s continued commitment to Cork and look forward to seeing the positive ripple effects of this investment for businesses and communities throughout the region,” Mr Mansworth said.

Michael Lohan, CEO of IDA Ireland, said BioMarin’s ongoing investment in Ireland was a welcome endorsement of the country’s position globally as a location of choice for biopharmaceuticals and as a trailblazer in advancing healthcare solutions.

“By opening this new quality control and process development laboratory, BioMarin will create new opportunities for collaboration, talent development and growth, ensuring that the life sciences sector in Ireland continues to make an impact on patients’ lives worldwide,” he said.