Core Insights - Legend Biotech has been awarded the Foreign Investor of the Year at the 2025 Flanders International Business Awards, recognizing its significant contributions to the region's biotech sector [1][2] - The company has made a €165 million joint investment with Johnson & Johnson to expand its manufacturing facility in Ghent, enhancing its position as a major CAR-T manufacturing center in Europe [3][4] Company Growth and Operations - Since starting operations in Ghent in 2022, Legend Biotech's workforce has grown from 2 to over 1,000 employees, representing 66 nationalities, with plans for further hiring in the coming years [4] - The Ghent facility, along with the nearby Obelisc site, serves as the European hub for clinical and commercial supply of cell therapies across the EMEA region [3] Strategic Partnerships and Ecosystem - Legend Biotech's growth is closely linked to the strength of the Flemish biotech ecosystem, supported by partnerships with Flanders Investment & Trade (FIT) and collaborations with research institutions like VIB and Ghent University [5] - The company aims to leverage its leadership in CAR-T cell therapy to maximize patient access and drive future innovations in cell therapy modalities [6]

Core Insights - Legend Biotech has officially opened a new 31,000-square-foot R&D facility in Philadelphia, enhancing its position as a leader in cell therapy innovation [3][4][5] - The facility will support the development of CAR-T therapies for oncology and immunology indications, contributing to Legend's expanding pipeline of next-generation cell therapies [4][5][9] Company Overview - Legend Biotech is headquartered in Somerset, New Jersey, and employs over 2,900 individuals, making it the largest standalone cell therapy company [9] - The company is known for its CARVYKTI treatment for relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma, which has been administered to over 9,000 patients across 132 treatment centers in 44 states [9] Facility Details - The new Philadelphia facility features advanced laboratories and collaborative workspaces aimed at fostering innovation and accelerating research programs [4][5] - Approximately 55 full-time employees will work at the new site, which complements Legend's existing R&D presence in Piscataway, New Jersey [5][6] Industry Context - The opening of the facility reflects the strength of Philadelphia's life sciences ecosystem, which is home to top-tier scientific talent and research institutions [8] - Local officials and industry leaders have expressed enthusiasm for Legend Biotech's investment, highlighting its potential to create high-quality jobs and enhance the city's reputation in healthcare innovation [8]