Governor Brian P. Kemp announced on Mar. 24 that UCB, Inc., a global biopharmaceutical company, will invest $2 billion to establish its first United States pharmaceutical biologics manufacturing facility in Georgia. The project is expected to create 330 new jobs over several years at the Rowen Foundation’s science and learning campus in Gwinnett County.
The investment is considered one of the largest in state history and aims to strengthen Georgia’s position as a center for life sciences innovation. Kemp said, “When we met with UCB leadership earlier this year in Belgium, we discussed how the Peach State would be the right partner for their visionary plans in the U.S. that will benefit both patients and hardworking Georgians.”
UCB’s North American headquarters are already located in Smyrna, supporting more than 400 jobs with expertise spanning neurology and immunology. Jean-Christophe Tellier, CEO of UCB, said, “This decision reflects our confidence in UCB’s long-term growth and our deep-rooted commitment to the United States… This project is expected to generate approximately $5 billion in total economic impact, reflecting the broader value it will create for the region and its communities.”
The new facility at Rowen will serve as an anchor tenant for a planned community designed to foster collaboration and innovation through advanced technology such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and automation while prioritizing resource efficiency.
Nicole Love Hendrickson, Chairwoman of Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners said, “We are thrilled that UCB has chosen Gwinnett County to advance its global operations and pioneering innovations… As one of the most dynamic and diverse counties in the nation, Gwinnett connects UCB to a highly skilled, globally connected talent pool.” Katie Kirkpatrick from Metro Atlanta Chamber added that metro Atlanta is becoming recognized as a hub where future breakthroughs take shape.
According to Pat Wilson from Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), “Georgia’s growing life sciences ecosystem and collaborative approach… connect companies with world-class partners.” The state executive branch operates within government administration based out of Atlanta at facilities like the Governor’s Mansion built on an 18-acre property according to official information. The executive branch leads statewide governance efforts across all counties as reported by state sources.
Georgia has also pursued international economic development initiatives since establishing a representation office in Japan in 1973 according to official records.
