Global biopharma company GSK is investing up to $800 million in Pennsylvania and expanding its facility in Lancaster County.
As part of its largest U.S. manufacturing investment, GSK is increasing its research and development and manufacturing footprint, Gov. Josh Shapiro and GSK leadership announced Thursday. Pennsylvania is supporting the expansion with a $21 million investment, the largest commonwealth-supported economic development project in Lancaster County history. The investment is expected to create at least 200 new, high-paying jobs.
“Pennsylvania is a leader in life sciences – and GSK’s decision to make its largest single investment ever in manufacturing in the United States right here in the commonwealth is further proof that we are the best state in the nation for business growth and economic development,” Shapiro said in a statement. “Our commonwealth offers the skilled workforce, market access, and innovation infrastructure that biotech and life sciences companies need to thrive.
“Pennsylvania is getting things done, and my administration will continue to work with companies like GSK to drive innovation forward and create jobs – and economic opportunity – for people across the commonwealth,” added Shapiro.
GSK is expanding its facility at 325 North Bridge Street in Marietta with new facilities to manufacture vaccines and medicines. According to a release, one in four Americans are administered a vaccine supplied from GSK’s Marietta location. This expansion will double the site’s size and capacity.
The Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) supported GSK’s expansion with a funding proposal that includes an $18 million Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program grant, a $2.35 million Pennsylvania First grant, and a $645,000 WEDnet grant to train employees. GSK will also retain some 4,622 jobs statewide.
“Today, we celebrate GSK’s decision to expand here in Pennsylvania – an expansion that represents one of the largest life science investments in the history of our commonwealth,” DCED Secretary Rick Siger said. “Life sciences is one of the key industries we’re focusing on in the governor’s 10-year Economic Development Strategy.
“The commonwealth is home to nearly 3,100 life sciences firms, and under Governor Shapiro’s leadership, we will continue to make bold investments like this one to further boost the industry and create more opportunities for Pennsylvanians,” added Siger.
GSK’s U.S. headquarters is in Philadelphia, with global headquarters located in London, England.
“This landmark investment will establish Marietta as an innovation and manufacturing hub capable of delivering next generation medicines and vaccines to people around the world,” said Regis Simard, president Global Supply Chain, GSK. “We’re grateful for the support of local and state officials, who made this project possible, and we are excited to expand upon the important work already underway at the Marietta site.”
