Croda International Plc, a global leader in smart science solutions, has announced the opening of a cutting-edge lipids manufacturing facility in Lamar, Pennsylvania, USA. This strategic investment emphasizes Croda's dedication to advancing drug delivery systems for next-generation therapeutics.

The state-of-the-art 23,680-square-foot facility is a major milestone in Croda's Pharma business mission to 'Empower biologics delivery.' The site enhances Croda’s ability to produce crucial drug delivery components, such as lipids used in nucleic acid-based therapies, mRNA vaccines, gene editing treatments, and innovative cancer solutions. With rapid advancements in biologics, the Lamar facility will play an essential role in supporting pharmaceutical innovations to improve global health outcomes.

David Cherry, Interim President of Life Sciences at Croda, highlighted the importance of this new facility in addressing public health needs. He remarked, “Opening this facility demonstrates our commitment to advancing health through innovation and collaboration. By expanding our lipid manufacturing capabilities, we are not only meeting the growing demands of the pharmaceutical industry but also ensuring readiness for future public health emergencies.”

The Lamar facility was developed in partnership with the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response's Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA). This collaboration strengthens domestic manufacturing capabilities in the United States, ensuring the production of vital drug delivery systems such as the lipids used in COVID-19 vaccines.

Bradley Cook, Vice President of North American Operations, expressed his pride in the project: “There are rare moments when a team can contribute to advancements in healthcare for the benefit of society. Our collaboration with BARDA and other agencies has positioned us to support the discovery and delivery of life-changing therapeutics.”

The Lamar facility complements Croda’s existing locations, including its Alabaster site in Alabama (previously Avanti Polar Lipids), as well as sites in Leek, UK, and Iksan, Korea. Together, these facilities form a strong global network supporting public health initiatives, including the rapid scaling of lipid production for COVID-19 vaccines during the pandemic. The Lamar facility, part of a 37-acre multipurpose cGMP complex acquired in 2021, will create approximately 50 new jobs across engineering, administration, maintenance, operations, and logistics. Designed with sustainability as a core principle, the site features efficient manufacturing practices that align with Croda’s long-term environmental goals.

This commitment to innovation, public health, and environmental responsibility positions Croda as a leader in the development, manufacturing, and commercialization of lipid-based materials for cutting-edge therapies, ensuring continued support for global healthcare advancements.