GSK is expanding its footprint in Pennsylvania, with plans to invest $800 million in a biopharma research and manufacturing hub that’s expected to create more than 300 jobs in the next five years.
New construction is slated to begin next year at facilities in Upper Merion Township outside Philadelphia, near the drugmaker’s U.S. headquarters — including the demolition of existing buildings to make room for a commercial-scale biologics production line, a R&D pilot plant tasked with tech transfer and process development work, and a centralized quality control lab.
It marks GSK’s second large-scale undertaking in the state, following a separate $800 million plan announced in 2024 to build out its facilities in Lancaster County and bolster its production of sterile injectable drugs and vaccines. That project was set to be completed by the end of 2028.
“GSK could have chosen anywhere in the world to expand production, but once again, they chose to renew and deepen their commitment to both the Commonwealth and our workers,” Governor Josh Shapiro said in a statement. “When companies like GSK double down on their commitment to Pennsylvania, we create more opportunities across the Commonwealth, spur meaningful economic growth, and support our skilled workforce.”
Related: Samsung Biologics acquires GSK manufacturing site
According to the state, GSK will be eligible for tax benefits through manufacturing- and innovation-related deductions and credits.
The big pharma outlined plans in 2025 to invest a total of $30 billion in R&D and manufacturing throughout the U.S. through the end of the decade — including the previously announced construction of a new biologics flex factory in Upper Merion. Last year also saw GSK sell two cGMP manufacturing plants with 60,000 liters of drug substance capacity in Maryland to Samsung Biologics for $280 million.
“Investing in additional commercial and R&D manufacturing with advanced digital capabilities at our Upper Merion site will help accelerate the development and supply of future medicines for patients,” said Regis Simard, GSK’s global supply chain president. “By expanding in Upper Merion, we’re building on that longstanding partnership while creating high-quality jobs and strengthening our ability to deliver the next generation of medicines.”
The governor’s office estimates Pennsylvania’s life sciences industry counts about 3,900 companies and 110,000 workers.
Tell Us What You Think!