Prince Edward Inaugurates Teesside Facility to Combat Cancer with Advanced Medicines
HRH Prince Edward has officially inaugurated the new Fujifilm Biotechnologies facility in Billingham, Teesside. This multimillion-pound expansion represents a significant investment in the fight against diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer’s.
About the New Facility
The recently opened facility is part of Fujifilm’s £400 million investment aimed at enhancing its production capabilities. This development specifically focuses on biopharmaceuticals and vaccines. The expansion has introduced advanced factory amenities and research laboratories to address pressing health challenges.
Significance of the Investment
The upgraded facility is expected to vastly increase the manufacturing capacity at the Teesside site. Key highlights include:
- New bioreactors that enhance production efficiency.
- A Bioprocess Innovation Centre that more than doubles laboratory space.
- Creation of approximately 150 jobs, including new positions.
Operational Capacity and Employment
The expanded site spans 1.6 million square feet and employs around 960 people. It is closely linked with Fujifilm’s operations in Toyama, Japan, suggesting a strong international collaboration in biomanufacturing.
Statements from Leadership
Lars Peterson, CEO of Fujifilm Biotechnologies, emphasized the company’s mission to impact patient lives positively. He stated that their operations encompass therapies for cancer, Alzheimer’s, and rare disorders.
Zubir Ahmed, the Health Innovation Minister, highlighted the significance of this investment as a confidence booster for the North East and the UK’s life sciences sector. He mentioned the ambition to make the UK the largest life sciences economy in Europe by 2030.
Future Prospects
As part of the UK government’s initiative, up to £520 million is earmarked for life sciences innovation and manufacturing funding. This will support the growth of advanced biopharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities in the country.
Global Impact
Teichi Goto, president of Fujifilm Corporation, remarked that the Billingham site has become the largest single-use biopharmaceutical manufacturing facility in the UK. Over the past decade, Fujifilm has invested more than £5 billion globally, showing a commitment to advancing healthcare solutions.
The enhancements at the Fujifilm Biotechnologies facility represent a pivotal step in the battle against serious health issues while fostering local job growth and innovation in the region.
