Belgian drugmaker UCB to invest $2B in suburban Atlanta plant, adding 330 jobs

Core Insights - UCB, a Belgian pharmaceutical company, announced a $2 billion investment to build a drug manufacturing plant in suburban Atlanta, aiming to enhance its presence in the U.S. market [1][2] - The new facility is expected to create approximately 330 jobs and is part of UCB's strategy to meet increasing demand for its products [1][2] Company Growth and Financials - UCB's revenues are projected to grow by 26% to nearly $9 billion (7.74 billion euros) in 2025, with profits expected to rise by 46% to $1.81 billion (1.56 billion euros) [2] - The company has a workforce of about 2,000 employees in the U.S. and plans to hire more U.S.-based contract manufacturers [2] Product Focus - UCB has a history of developing antihistamines like Zyrtec and Xyzal, and is currently focused on drugs for neurological and autoimmune diseases, with Bimzelx being a key product for treating autoimmune disorders [3] Location and Strategic Advantages - The new plant will be situated in a research park in Gwinnett County, Georgia, which aims to become a hub for biomedical research, similar to North Carolina's Research Triangle Park [4] - The proximity to Georgia Tech and the University of Georgia is expected to foster collaboration in biomedical research and manufacturing [4] Investment and Incentives - The construction of the plant is anticipated to take six to seven years, with Gwinnett County committing $174 million in incentives, including property tax breaks and infrastructure improvements [5] - UCB may also qualify for additional state income tax credits and sales tax waivers on equipment purchases [5]