German contract development and manufacturing organisation Vetter Pharma has commenced construction of a new $285m clinical manufacturing facility in Des Plaines in the US state of Illinois with a ground-breaking ceremony.

The facility will support Vetter's commitment to provide quality services and drug products during initial phases of clinical development.

Ground preparation work for the new site commenced in April after obtaining the building permit.

The planned 160,000ft² facility will focus on aseptic production and includes areas for material preparation and compounding. Further supporting buildings will have storage spaces, laboratories and offices.

The facility will be complete and ready for media fill by late 2029, with plans to move Vetter’s existing clinical operations in Skokie.

Vetter advisory board chairman stated: “The new site will not only demonstrate our enhanced clinical operations and manufacturing capabilities but will also expand our presence in the US significantly.

“We want to express our deep gratitude for the warm hospitality of the Illinois Science and Technology Park since 2009, hosting and supporting our successful start of US manufacturing operations. We are excited to now be able to officially kick off this ambitious project.”

The current premises in Des Plaines will remain, as it offers ample space across its 860,000ft² area for potential future expansion based on market trends and customer needs and with ongoing investments by Vetter in Germany and Austria.

Vetter managing director Henryk Badack said: “Together with our clinical site in Rankweil, Austria, we will be able to meet the increasing development needs of our customers while reinforcing our industry position as a reliable partner for low volume injectables of innovative drug candidates during the crucial early development phases, among others.”