Science and technology company Merck has officially opened its new €150m filtration manufacturing facility at Blarney Business Park in Co Cork.
The new facility is Merck's first manufacturing facility designed for full climate-neutral operations, powered entirely by renewable electricity and the company said it marks a significant milestone in its ambition to achieve climate neutrality by 2040.
The Blarney facility is part of Merck's biggest Life Science investment so far in Ireland, with €440m committed across its Cork operations in Blarney and Carrigtwohill.
The company said the expansion will support more than 200 new jobs in Cork by 2028 and further strengthen Ireland's reputation as a global hub for biopharmaceutical manufacturing and innovation
The Blarney facility is expected to begin production in the fourth quarter of 2025 and will make filtration devices used in aseptic processing, tangential-flow filtration, and virus filtration. These are technologies essential for ensuring that medicines are safe, sterile, and effective for patients.
Jean-Charles Wirth, CEO, Merck Life Science, said that 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, shortening lead times, reducing cross-border risks and giving customers reliable access to critical filtration technologies they need to deliver life-changing therapies," he added.
Mark Dunphy, Managing Director and Head of Cork Operations, Merck Life Science, Ireland, said the new Blarney facility not only underscores the company's long-term commitment to Ireland but also highlights the incredible talent and expertise it has in Cork.
"This investment strengthens our ability to deliver cutting-edge technologies that support the manufacture of breakthrough therapies for patients around the world," he said.
Minister of State at the Department of Rural and Community Development and the Gaeltacht and at the Department of Transport Jerry Buttimer said Ireland's reputation as a global hub for biopharmaceutical manufacturing and innovation is further strengthened by Merck's significant investment in Cork.
"This commitment highlights the attractiveness of our region for leading life sciences companies," he added.
