MATRIX welcomes the news that Almac Pharma Services is to create 229 new jobs in Craigavon as part of a £13.7million investment.
Almac takes its customers initial drug formulations and manufactures them on a large volume scale for global markets. Central to the service that Almac offers are drug testing and quality compliance monitoring which ensure that drug action is not negatively impacted by large scale manufacturing and that full regulatory approvals are met.
Graeme McBurney of Almac said:
“Centralising and expanding our production in Craigavon will mean more cost effective manufacturing and optimal quality control and distribution. The added manufacturing capability will enable us to operate with improved speed and efficiency, particularly in the early stages of projects. Ultimately, the investment will make Almac an even more attractive proposition to international clients who seek streamlined, one stop drug development solutions.”
The company was involved in the MATRIX Health and Life Science Horizon Panel and supportive of the need for Northern Ireland to champion science and technology as a key driver of economic growth.
Bryan Keating , Chair of the MATRIX Panel said,
“Whilst the announcement of these new jobs highlights Almac’s commitment to Northern Ireland, it also indicates that a highly skilled workforce, particularly in R & D and science, strengthens our position to compete effectively in the wider life sciences sector.
“We must ensure that more of our young people study science based subjects, the STEM subjects, so that more companies can expand and consolidate Northern Ireland’s reputation as a centre of excellence in science and technology.”