Brussels, Belgium & Atlanta, Georgia – March 24, 2026
Strategic Biologics Expansion to Strengthen Global Supply
In a major move to reinforce its global manufacturing capabilities, UCB has announced the establishment of a state-of-the-art biologics manufacturing facility in Gwinnett County, Georgia, marking a significant milestone in its long-term U.S. expansion strategy. The 460,000-square-foot facility, spread across 79 acres, will operate with a digital-first approach integrating AI, robotics, and automation, ensuring efficiency, scalability, and sustainability. This facility is expected to play a critical role in supporting the growing demand for complex biologics, particularly within the U.S. market, while also strengthening global supply chain resilience. By enabling 24/7 biologics production, UCB aims to ensure uninterrupted delivery of advanced therapies, addressing increasing patient needs across its portfolio and pipeline.
Economic Impact and Workforce Development
The investment is projected to generate an impressive $5 billion in total economic impact, making it one of the most substantial life sciences investments in Georgia’s history. The project is expected to create approximately 330 permanent high-skilled jobs along with over 1,000 construction roles, contributing significantly to regional economic growth. The facility’s location within the Rowen innovation district offers strategic advantages such as robust infrastructure, efficient regulatory processes, and access to a highly skilled talent pool from nearby academic institutions. This ecosystem is designed to support advanced manufacturing and life sciences innovation, positioning the region as a growing hub for biopharmaceutical excellence. UCB’s decision reflects a calculated strategy to align manufacturing capacity with future demand, rather than reacting to existing market pressures—a move that indicates strong confidence in its long-term growth trajectory.
Innovation-Driven Manufacturing and Pipeline Support
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The new campus is not just a production site but a central hub for U.S. manufacturing operations, integrating the full value chain from research and development to commercial production. UCB has demonstrated strong momentum with 15 FDA approvals or indication expansions, including nine in the past three years, highlighting its commitment to scientific innovation and regulatory success. The Georgia facility will directly support the commercialization of recently approved therapies and future pipeline candidates, accelerating the transition from development to patient access. By investing in advanced manufacturing technologies and sustainable operations, UCB is addressing critical industry challenges such as scalability, cost efficiency, and regulatory compliance.
The company’s longstanding presence in the U.S., spanning nearly a century, further reinforces this commitment. With a workforce of approximately 2,000 employees in the United States, UCB continues to expand its footprint, particularly in R&D and advanced manufacturing roles. This expansion is not just about capacity—it is about building a resilient, future-ready biologics ecosystem capable of adapting to evolving healthcare demands and regulatory landscapes
Long-Term Strategic Positioning in Biopharma
This investment highlights a broader industry trend where biopharmaceutical companies are localizing manufacturing to mitigate supply chain risks and enhance operational control. UCB’s approach of investing ahead of demand, combined with long-dated patent protection and continuous innovation, positions it strongly against increasing competition, including biosimilars and emerging technologies. However, the company also faces inherent risks such as regulatory uncertainties, clinical trial unpredictability, and global economic fluctuations, which could impact timelines and outcomes.
Despite these challenges, the Georgia facility represents a forward-looking strategy focused on scalability, innovation, and patient-centric delivery. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and a strong talent ecosystem, UCB is setting a benchmark for next-generation biologics manufacturing, ensuring that advanced therapies reach patients faster and more efficiently.
Source: UCB (Union Chimique Belge) press release
