The new facility will support global demand for critical filtration products used in the production of vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, and advanced therapies such as cell and gene therapies. By localizing production in Europe, MilliporeSigma aims to reduce cross-border dependencies and provide customers with reliable access to essential filtration technologies.
Jean-Charles Wirth, CEO of MilliporeSigma, said: “Ireland is a leading hub for biopharmaceutical manufacturing and innovation for Europe and globally. By expanding manufacturing in Cork, we reinforce our in-region-for-region manufacturing and supply model, reducing cross-border risks and providing manufacturers with reliable access to critical filtration technologies they need to deliver life-changing therapies.”
Production at the facility is expected to begin in Q4 2025. The plant will manufacture filtration devices for aseptic processing, tangential-flow filtration, and virus filtration, which are crucial for controlling bioburden, streamlining purification, and removing viral contaminants. These technologies ensure vaccines and therapeutics meet required purity standards and are safe for patient use.
The facility operates on 100% renewable electricity and features an innovative heat recovery system, projected to avoid up to 61 metric tons of CO2 equivalents annually. Additionally, it will reuse up to 95% of high-purity reverse osmosis water from its manufacturing processes, supporting sustainability goals.
This site is part of MilliporeSigma’s largest Life Science investment to date. Alongside the nearby Carrigtwohill facility, Merck KGaA has committed €440 million to expand membrane and filtration manufacturing in Ireland. These investments are included in the company’s €2 billion global Life Science expansion program, launched in 2020 to meet rising demand for life-saving therapies in Europe, China, and the United States.
The Cork facility strengthens the company’s ability to serve biopharmaceutical manufacturers locally, reduce logistical risks, and support the growing global demand for high-quality filtration technologies. It underscores MilliporeSigma’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and securing reliable supply chains for critical life science products.
