Novartis Unveils €40M Viral Vector Facility in Slovenia, Bolstering European Cell and Gene Therapy Manufacturing

In a significant move to expand its cell and gene therapy manufacturing capabilities in Europe, Novartis has opened a state-of-the-art €40 million ($41.2 million) viral vector facility in Mengeš, Slovenia. The new plant, named VIFA One, marks a crucial step in the pharmaceutical giant's broader investment strategy in the country and its commitment to advancing innovative therapies.

€3.5 Billion Investment Milestone in Slovenia

The inauguration of VIFA One brings Novartis's total investment in Slovenia to an impressive €3.5 billion ($3.6 billion). This substantial financial commitment underscores the country's strategic importance in Novartis's global manufacturing network. The company operates in Slovenia through two entities: Novartis LLC in Ljubljana and Novartis Pharma Services in Mengeš.

Petra Štefanič Anderluh, a Novartis general manager, highlighted the significance of the Mengeš location, stating, "Our location in Mengeš has a long tradition of developing and producing biologics. Mengeš represents the largest center for modern innovative biotechnology in Slovenia."

Cutting-Edge Technology for Advanced Therapies

VIFA One is not just another manufacturing facility; it represents a leap forward in pharmaceutical production technology. The fully automated plant utilizes robotics throughout all stages of production, enabling the creation of viral vectors crucial for new cell and gene therapies targeting cancer and other diseases.

Construction of this pioneering facility began in 2023, with Novartis hailing it as "the first step by Novartis in viral vector production in Europe." This development aligns with the company's strategic focus on expanding its capabilities in advanced therapy manufacturing across the continent.

Ongoing Investments and Future Plans

Novartis's commitment to Slovenia extends beyond the VIFA One facility. The company reports approximately €500 million ($516 million) in ongoing investments at its Ljubljana and Mengeš sites. This continued investment follows a 2022 announcement of a $300 million expenditure to grow its development and manufacturing operations, with $110 million specifically earmarked for expanding its Slovenian manufacturing presence in Mengeš.

The establishment of VIFA One and the ongoing investments in Slovenia position Novartis at the forefront of cell and gene therapy production in Europe, reinforcing its commitment to developing innovative treatments for patients worldwide.