55 new jobs created by move into US market
Feb 18 2008 by Andrew Mernin, The Journal
A PHARMACEUTICALS firm has announced plans to create over 50 new jobs in the region in the next two years by breaking the lucrative American market.
Northumberland-based Shasun Pharma Solutions Limited (SPSL) will open a laboratory in New Jersey, US, which is expected to generate more work for its North East plant. If the firm’s assault on the huge US pharmaceuticals market is a success, it plans to build a new laboratory and double the capacity of its ‘pilot project’ plant at its site in Dudley, Cramlington. The expansion plans, which are expected to take place within 18 months, will create 55 jobs in the region.
The company said the move to the US would safeguard its “highly skilled” jobs in Dudley and “underpin the continued success of the company by securing a global position at the heart of new and emerging markets”. SPSL operations director Kevin Cook said: “A new base in the US will help us secure new customers and bring new business to our UK sites, enabling long-term growth and stability.
“The development will also enhance our position as a global chemistry services provider. The whole objective is to work in North America next to a rich client base there and to create an improved project pipeline that will feed our UK business.”
In April 2006, Indian chemicals giant Shasun Chemicals and Drugs bought the pharmaceutical plant in Dudley from French group Rhodia.
Since the takeover, the Indian owners have increased the workforce at the plant from 240 to 300, while it has also increased its product portfolio.
SPSL, which also has a site in Annan, South-West Scotland, makes ingredients for drugs to treat conditions ranging from asthma to Aids.
Shasun Chemicals and Drugs is one of the largest global producers of Ibruprofen – used as a pain killer for common ailments like headaches, toothaches and arthritis – and exports its products across Asia, Latin America, Europe and North America.
Last week the Indian firm posted a 32% rise in consolidated revenue to around £32.7m in the third quarter of its financial year.
