Merck is investing in the future of its pharmaceutical production. In Darmstadt, the Launch and Technology Center (LTC) is a state-of-the-art facility that combines research, development, and sustainable manufacturing in one infrastructure. The goal is to make small molecule-based therapies available more quickly to patients with previously unmet medical needs. In this way, Merck aims to expand its competitiveness in an increasingly complex market environment.
Merck builds a bridge between research and production
The Launch and Technology Center sees itself as a link between scientific research and commercial manufacturing. It aims to ensure that new small molecule drugs reach clinical trials in less time and are ready for market launch in the appropriate quality and quantity. “The Launch and Technology Center will bridge the gap between research and commercial production. It will help our next generations of small molecule therapies reach clinical trials, the market and patients faster,” emphasizes Danny Bar-Zohar, CEO of Healthcare at Merck.
Merck invests in technology and sustainability
Merck is investing €160 million in the new building, which offers 13,900 square meters of modern infrastructure. The building combines science and technology with a high degree of user orientation and meets international standards for quality, environment, health, and safety. In addition to continuous manufacturing and high-security infrastructures for highly potent active ingredients, the focus is on digital solutions and flexible production environments.
Sustainability is also central: over 1,600 square meters of solar panels, a geothermal system, rainwater harvesting, and an innovative wastewater treatment system are designed to minimize the ecological footprint. The building meets the KfW40 energy saving standard and blends architecturally into the Darmstadt campus.
Strategic importance fro Merck
Belén Garijo, Chair of the Executive Board, explains, that the Launch and Technology Center is part of a bold and very conscious transformation of Merck's global presence. It strengthens the innovation pipeline, increases supply security, and empowers local teams.” With the Launch and Technology Center, Merck is sending a clear signal: In the future, the pharmaceutical company not only wants to bring drugs to market faster, but also to do so in a sustainable and technologically leading infrastructure.
Process improvement brings greater control, flexibility and product understanding
The new center also brings advantages for the production organization. Teresa Rodó, who is responsible for global production in the Healthcare business sector, adds, that the Launch and Technology Center will enable the company to carry out internal activities that are currently outsourced, giving more control, influence over the process, understanding of the product, and flexibility.
