Merck unveils $1bn facility to boost vaccine production capacity

Published: 14-Mar-2025

The pharmaceutical giant has opened a 225,000 sqftvaccine manufacturing facility in North Carolina, as part of a broader effort to strengthen US production and enhance global vaccine capacity

Merck, known as MSD outside of the US and Canada, has unveiled a new $1 billion vaccine manufacturing facility at its Durham, North Carolina site.

The 225,000 sqft facility is part of the company’s ongoing commitment to enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities, having already invested over $12 billion in US capital since 2018.

This new development aligns with Merck’s broader initiative to expand its vaccine production and research and development capabilities in the US, with an additional $8 billion of capital investment planned by 2028.

Sanat Chattopadhyay, Executive VP and President of Merck's manufacturing division, said: “Expanding our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Durham is a major milestone in strengthening our production capabilities.

This new development aligns with Merck’s broader initiative to expand its vaccine production 

“The new facility leverages advanced technologies, such as data analytics, generative AI, 3D printing, and digital twins, to optimise production and accelerate employee training.”

Amanda Taylor, VP and Plant Manager at the Durham site, added: “The pride and energy of our workforce driving this evolution are phenomenal. This investment speaks volumes about the future of Merck’s operations in Durham.”

With cutting-edge technological capabilities, the new facility aims to contribute to faster vaccine production, meeting the rising global demand for life-saving treatments.

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