UCB invests over CHF 100 million to expand its biopharmaceutical site in Bulle

Biopharmaceutical company UCB has announced a major investment plan of more than CHF 100 million to expand and modernize its industrial site in Bulle (canton of Fribourg). The projects, spread over several years, aim to reinforce infrastructure, increase production capacity, and enhance operational efficiency to support the group’s long-term growth strategy.

By 2030, around 80 new jobs will be created to support operations at a new production unit currently under construction. The positions will include roles in manufacturing, quality control laboratories, and technical services.

As part of this expansion, UCB will transfer to Bulle the production of a chemical compound used in some of its biological medicines, currently manufactured at its Belgian site in Braine-l’Alleud. The relocation is designed to secure long-term supply of the compound and optimize production efficiency across sites.

Modernized laboratories and sustainable infrastructure

Construction of the new unit began in September and involves close collaboration with local partners. The new facility will be integrated within an existing chemical production building, making the project particularly complex. UCB expects the unit to be fully qualified and approved by 2029, with commercial production ramping up to full capacity by 2030.

In parallel, UCB is extending its analytical laboratories and establishing a new Quality Control laboratory, scheduled to be operational by mid-2026. The company is also building a new industrial cooling facility to centralize cold production for the entire site.

The new hall will replace traditional refrigerants with environmentally friendly alternatives, aligning with UCB’s sustainability strategy to improve energy efficiency and reduce its carbon footprint.