Genentech, part of the Roche Group, has begun construction of a $700 million manufacturing facility in Holly Springs, North Carolina, its first on the East coast. The project is part of Roche’s broader $50 billion investment in US manufacturing, infrastructure, and research.

The 700,000-square-foot plant will focus on production of metabolic medicines, including treatments for obesity. Once operational, the site will employ more than 400 people, with an additional 1,500 jobs supported during construction. Federal, state, and local officials attended the groundbreaking on August 25.

Company leaders said Holly Springs was chosen for its workforce, nearby universities and proximity to the region’s expanding life sciences sector. The facility will use advanced biomanufacturing technology, automation, and digital systems to increase production capacity and strengthen supply chain resilience.

The site, which covers 100 acres, is scheduled to be operational by 2029 and is designed with capacity for future expansion. RP