CSL outsources biologics manufacture to Thermo Fisher

Biotechnology giant CSL has announced the outsourcing of operations in its latest new manufacturing facility now nearing completion in Lengnau, Switzerland.

The Melbourne company told investors that after a strategic review it had entered a long term strategic partnership with science service provider Thermo Fisher Scientific to lease its new state of the art biotech manufacturing facility.

Thermo Fisher will operate the Lengnau facility and be responsible for production to support CSL’s biologics medicines, as well as other contract manufacturing operations such as packaging and product finishing.

The new plant has been under construction since 2015 and is designed for the company’s latest recombinant products.

CSL Chief Operating Officer Paul McKenzie said the company was transforming its end-to-end supply chain with a view to ensuring the company’s global manufacturing network is operating at a best-in-class level.

“This includes balancing internal investment with access to capabilities and capacities that are available with an experienced partner.

“CSL will now be able to access a wide range of capabilities provided by a leading pharma services provider, and we are confident that the management of the facility and the team will be in the very best of hands.”

CSL and Thermo Fisher, which provides labware and chemicals in Australia, have done business before.

CSL shares have had a rough time recently, falling from $307.63 on Tuesday to $276.22 at Friday’s close.

Picture: Thermo Fisher Scientific

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