Vetter, a global Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), has begun construction of its new clinical manufacturing site in Des Plaines. With an investment of approximately $285 million, this new facility underscores Vetter’s dedication to delivering high-quality services and drug products during early clinical development.

Upstream and ground preparation work on the premises started back in April. Vetter’s construction plans include a 160,000 square foot clinical production facility for aseptic manufacturing. The site will also feature new process areas for material preparation and compounding. Additional buildings will include supporting services like storage, laboratories, and offices. The clinical site is expected to be completed and ready for media fill by the end of 2029.

Vetter representatives, along with city officials from Des Plaines and other guests, gathered for the groundbreaking ceremony, marking the next phase of Vetter’s growing footprint in the U.S.

“This facility marks the beginning of a new chapter in our U.S. success story,” stated Vetter Managing Director Henryk Badack. “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.”

The existing buildings in the Des Plaines area will be retained. With 860,000 square feet the property also provides ample space for future expansion opportunities. These will depend on global market developments and customer demand, as well as additional investment projects currently underway at Vetter in Germany and Austria.