Chinese firm Asymchem takes former Pfizer pilot plant at Discovery Park

Asymchem Laboratories is set to take over the former Pfizer small molecule API pilot plant and development labs at Discovery Park in Kent as the Chinese firm establishes its first European manufacturing footprint.

The company will continue to operate the site as a clinical small molecule development and manufacturing facility to meet global demand for pharma services and supply.

Asymchem expects the development labs to begin operation in June 2024, followed by the API pilot plant in August.

The site is expected to employ approximately 100 individuals by the end of this year, including many staff previously employed by Pfizer.

Planned additions for the site include capabilities for the manufacture of peptides and oligonucleotides, as well as sustainability capabilities utilizing continuous flow and biocatalysis.

Dr Hao Hong, chair and CEO of Asymchem Group, said: “We’re excited to become a part of the European pharma manufacturing community.

“Meeting the needs of our clients in bringing manufacturing into the Western market will continue to be part of our long-term strategy to meet overall global business demands.”

Mayer Schreiber, CEO of Discovery Park, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Asymchem to Discovery Park this summer.

“The organisation has selected Discovery Park as their European base and home to their first manufacturing facility in Europe, bringing new jobs and safeguarding scientific talent.

“Asymchem joins a burgeoning community of over 160 companies in a designated Life Sciences Opportunity Zone, representing an incredible talent pool which contributes significantly to the UK life sciences economy.”