Almac Group plans to expand its operations in Europe and North America increasing its global headcount to 5,000 by 2017. As part of its ongoing global growth strategy, Almac will invest a further £20 million at its U.S. headquarter site in Souderton, PA to expand its existing 240,000-sq.-ft. facility, in addition to leasing a 26,000-sq.-ft. office space in nearby Lansdale.
 
The expansion will create 312 new jobs across a wide range of functions and increases capabilities for its Sciences, Clinical Services, Clinical Technologies and Pharma Services businesses. The company received a funding proposal from the Department of Community and Economic Development comprised of a £1.3 million Pennsylvania First Program grant and involves substantial investment in new machine lines, computer equipment, software and an expanded cold storage area.
 
The company is also investing approximately £5 million to build an additional lab and office facility at its global headquarters site in Craigavon, Northern Ireland. About 170 existing employees involved in supporting drug research, development and manufacture will be transferred to the new building.
 
Also, an additional £2 million is being invested in the development of the Arran Chemical Company facility in Athlone, Ireland, which was acquired by Almac last year. The project will upgrade the existing site infrastructure and brings additional manufacturing capacity and assets on stream as well as more distillation and drying capabilities.
 
Almac currently employs more than 4,600 staff globally and is set to reach 5,000 by the end of 2017. This follows the recent £4.2 million expansion at its facility in NC.
 
Alan Armstrong, chief executive officer of Almac Group said, “Due to significant industry demand for our services it is essential we build capacity and increase headcount to ensure we continue to compete at a global level. This year we are celebrating our twentieth year in the US and we are excited to make a further commitment within the Pennsylvania State and throughout North America.  We are also delighted to announce our further expansion plans across Europe as we continue to build upon our tremendous global success and we are looking forward to an exciting future.”