The Bayer company is expanding with a new Consumer Health Manufacturing Operation facility in Lebanon County.
The multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company’s new facility was celebrated by the Shapiro Administration Wednesday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Department of Community and Economic Development‘s Senior Managing Director of BusinessPA Brent Vernon helped cut the ribbon on the 70,000-square-foot expansion of the Bayer Consumer Health Manufacturing Operation.
“The Shapiro Administration is committed to implementing the governor’s Economic Development Strategy, which identifies life sciences as one of the key industries to focus on and ensure the long-term success of Pennsylvania,” Vernon said in a statement. “We’re thrilled to see Bayer double down on its commitment to the commonwealth, signaling to the world that Pennsylvania is open for business and has the talent and resources necessary to support critical, life-saving work.”
Bayer invested $44 million to expand its existing operation in Myerstown to increase production and packaging capabilities for its over-the-counter products, according to a release. The expansion includes room for eight new packaging lines that will streamline and modernize Bayer’s operations.
“This expansion is a great win for Lebanon County and the entire Commonwealth of Pennsylvania,” said Luke Bernstein, president and CEO, PA Chamber. “Bayer could have expanded anywhere, but this innovative, forward-looking investment was made in Pennsylvania because of our strong workforce, solid infrastructure, and proximity to key markets.
“Expanding this facility means more opportunities for good-paying jobs, stronger local supply chains, and long-term economic growth,” added Bernstein.
Headquartered in Germany, Bayer touches both life sciences and agriculture — important industries that are included in Pennsylvania’s 10-year Economic Development Strategy.
“Our trusted brands have been helping people live healthier lives for generations,” said Dave Tomasi, president of Bayer’s Consumer Health division in North America. “The Myerstown annex will enable us to bring science-backed products to market with more speed and reliability than ever before. The expanded facility will further strengthen our commitment to providing safe, effective and high-quality self-care solutions that our consumers and customers can depend on.”