PCI Pharma Services Expands Fill-Finish Capabilities with Acquisition of Ajinomoto Althea

In a significant move that bolsters its presence in the sterile fill-finish market, PCI Pharma Services has announced the acquisition of Ajinomoto Althea, a San Diego-based contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO). This strategic purchase marks PCI's latest expansion effort and enhances its capabilities in the production of injectable drugs and complex biologics.

Acquisition Details and Strategic Implications

PCI Pharma Services, a global contract manufacturer, is set to acquire a 100% stake in Ajinomoto Althea, a subsidiary of Japan's Ajinomoto. While financial terms were not disclosed, the transaction is expected to close in May. This acquisition provides PCI with its first North American production site for prefilled syringes and cartridges, significantly expanding its manufacturing capabilities.

The Althea facility in San Diego comes equipped with advanced isolator technology and high-potency manufacturing capabilities, particularly suitable for antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). This addition positions PCI as one of the few U.S.-based CDMOs capable of manufacturing ADCs, which have gained prominence in oncology treatments.

Salim Haffar, CEO of PCI, emphasized the company's commitment to the sterile fill-finish sector, stating, "PCI continues to make sizable investments in the sterile fill-finish category that bring additional capabilities, capacity and technologies into our portfolio."

Enhanced Manufacturing Capabilities

The acquisition of Althea will significantly boost PCI's production capabilities for both clinical and commercial-stage injectable drugs. Key enhancements include:

1. High-potency vial filling and freeze-drying capabilities
2. Expertise in oligonucleotides and peptides manufacturing
3. Complementary capabilities for nanoparticles, mRNA, monoclonal antibodies, proteins, and other biologics

These additions complement PCI's existing manufacturing setup and broaden its service offerings to pharmaceutical clients.

PCI's Ongoing Expansion Efforts

The Althea acquisition is part of PCI's broader expansion strategy. In September of the previous year, PCI announced investments exceeding $365 million in various manufacturing projects across the U.S. and internationally. These investments included:

1. New drug delivery technologies at PCI's Philadelphia headquarters
2. A planned 545,000-square-foot expansion in Rockford, Illinois
3. Acquisition of a packaging and device assembly plant near Dublin, Ireland

PCI's global manufacturing footprint now spans multiple continents, with facilities in Australia, Canada, the United States, Ireland, Wales, Germany, and Spain.