This expansion is part of Abbvie's previously announced commitment to invest more than 10 billion dollars of capital in the U.S. to broadly support innovation and expand critical manufacturing capabilities and capacity.
The new North Chicago API facility will focus on chemical synthesis, supporting the production of current and next-generation medicines in neuroscience, immunology, and oncology. Robert A. Michael, Abbvie’s chairman and chief executive officer, stated: “Over the next decade, Abbvie will expand production of API, drug product, peptides, and medical devices in the U.S. to support future medical breakthroughs. This is an important step to maintain U.S. leadership in pharmaceutical innovation and deliver next-generation medicines that make a remarkable impact on patients’ lives.”
Construction of the facility is set to begin in fall 2025, with full operations expected by 2027. The project will expand Abbvie’s existing U.S. manufacturing network, which includes 11 sites and supports over 6,000 jobs, alongside thousands more at suppliers nationwide. This investment reinforces Abbvie’s long-standing presence in Illinois, where it is headquartered and employs over 11,000 people dedicated to developing and producing innovative medicines for global markets.
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker commented: “Abbvie’s decision to expand its manufacturing footprint in Illinois is a testament to our state’s world-class workforce, infrastructure, cutting-edge research institutions, and location that keeps businesses connected to the nation and the world. As a global leader in pharmaceuticals, Abbvie’s investment in Illinois bolsters our world-class biomanufacturing ecosystem and creates jobs while it innovates next-generation medicines.”
The expansion underscores Abbvie’s commitment to advancing pharmaceutical manufacturing in the U.S., enhancing the production of critical medicines, and supporting economic growth in Illinois through job creation and strengthened infrastructure.
