Hospira (NYSE: HSP) is betting that $200 million in upgrades and new facilities as well as an expanded work force will put troubles at its largest plant in the corporate rear view mirror.
The manufacturer of injectable drugs says it has invested more than $200 million and added 200 jobs at the Rocky Mount facility. It is the company’s largest but also had been hobbled in recent years by quality control issues.
More than 2,60 people work at the plant.
On Wednesday, Hospira formally opened a new quality and analytical testing lab. N.C. Governor Pat McCrory attended the event.
Hospira announced plans in August 2012 to add 200 jobs and invest $85 million in upgrades. The state of North Carolina offered up to $13 million in tax incentives and rebates.
In 2011, Hospira initiated upgrades that it said would eventually total $300 million.
“Rocky Mount’s new laboratory, coupled with our investments throughout the plant, will help ensure that we continue to supply high-quality, more affordable medicines to customers and patients who need them,” said Marty Nealey, vice president of Rocky Mount operations for Hospira. “Through advanced technology and additional space, we’ve been able to gradually increase our production levels and ensure more consistent release of products, ultimately supporting our ability to provide a more sustainable supply of many life-impacting drugs. I’m very proud of all of the team members here at Rocky Mount and very thankful for the support of this community and our state in furthering our commitment to advancing wellness.”
The lab will evaluate and test some 450 products.
Products manufacturer in Rocky Mount include irrigation and intraveneous solutions, renal and cardivascula care products, general anesthesia, and other therapeutics.
Hospira opened the plant in 1968.
