Eisai Co., Ltd. has announced a strategic investment of approximately £48 million at its manufacturing site in Hatfield, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom. This investment, supported by the UK Government's Life Sciences Innovative Manufacturing Fund (LSIMF), aims to establish supply chain and packaging capabilities for medicines requiring cold-chain management, including lecanemab.
The LSIMF is a capital grants scheme designed to enhance life sciences manufacturing capabilities in the UK and improve supply resilience against future health emergencies. This initiative aligns with the UK Government's policy to reinforce domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing and reflects Eisai's long-term commitment to the region.
Haruo Naito, CEO of Eisai Co., Ltd., emphasized the strategic nature of this investment, highlighting its role in strengthening resilient supply capabilities for innovative medicines and deepening Eisai's relationship with the United Kingdom. Science Minister Lord Vallance noted that the investment would secure the supply of vital medicines and support the creation of skilled jobs in Hatfield, enhancing the UK's reputation as a life sciences hub.
The investment will expand Eisai's advanced manufacturing capabilities at the Hatfield site, transitioning from reliance on external contract manufacturers to an in-house packaging model. This shift is expected to enhance supply stability and flexibility. The project includes the construction of ambient and cold-chain warehouses, the installation of packaging buildings and lines, and the expansion of goods receipt and dispatch functions.
Through this investment, the Hatfield site is set to strengthen its role as a global manufacturing hub serving multiple regions, including Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Enhanced production flexibility, multi-language and small-batch packaging capabilities, and advanced quality management will support Eisai's global supply network.