FDI in NC: Swiss Pharma Company Novartis Expanding Throughout Triangle Region

Date Published: June 19, 2018

Novartis, a Swiss multinational pharmaceutical company, not only expanded its $1 billion Holly Springs biomanufacturing campus with a $47 million addition, but also opened a new research and development operation in the Research Triangle Park. The company employs over 760 workers.

Novartis also recently purchased AveXis, which announced in May its plan to create 200 jobs in Durham County, after receiving an incentive package worth up to nearly $3 million from the state.

“It’s notable that AveXis has chosen to expand its manufacturing operations in North Carolina,” Commerce Secretary Tony Copeland said in a statement. “Life science companies understand the many advantages our state offers manufacturers, particularly the investments North Carolina has made in education and workforce training for the biotechnology industry.”

Brent MacGregor, president of Novartis’ U.S. vaccines operations and head of the North American region, said, “North Carolina got out in front of other states. They saw the potential, and grabbed onto it. The ‘first-mover’ advantage is key – it snowballs onto itself. Now every state competes with North Carolina. They all want these high-skill, high-paying jobs that North Carolina has created so well.”

MacGregor said his global travels have increased his respect for North Carolina’s 30-year rise to a position of life science leadership, especially in biomanufacturing.