Merck Launches Wilmington Biotech Hub To Manufacture KEYTRUDA®, Creating Jobs And Advancing U.S. Biologics Manufacturing

Merck has broken ground on a $1 billion, 470,000-square-foot biologics centre of excellence in Wilmington, Delaware. The new Merck Wilmington Biotech facility will integrate advanced laboratory, manufacturing, and warehouse capabilities to support the commercial production of next-generation biologics, including antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). The site underscores Merck’s strategy to boost U.S.-based innovation and expand its therapeutic pipeline.

“The Merck Wilmington Biotech site represents our continued commitment to growing our investments in U.S. manufacturing and has the potential to create thousands of high-paying American jobs while ensuring that we can produce and distribute products close to patients right here in the U.S.,” said Robert M. Davis, chairman and chief executive officer, Merck.

Significantly, the site is also expected to become the U.S. manufacturing hub for KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab), Merck’s flagship cancer immunotherapy. The facility will play a critical role in Merck’s biologics supply chain, bringing manufacturing closer to American patients. Future expansion phases are planned to accommodate the company’s growing pipeline, further boosting production capacity.

“This new site in Delaware is on the cutting edge of innovation, helping lead the way as we transform medicine and technology. Merck is pioneering the next generation of care right here in Wilmington, and they couldn’t have picked a better place to do it. The positive impact this will have on Wilmington and the state of Delaware is exciting, and this is just the beginning,” said Delaware Gov. Matt Meyer. 

Located in the Chestnut Run Innovation & Science Park, the project is expected to generate over 500 permanent jobs and approximately 4,000 construction jobs, with long-term plans to add up to 1,500 full-time roles. The centre will also strengthen ties with local universities and enhance regional biotech talent development across Delaware, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.

“The decision to build a new biologics facility in Wilmington demonstrates our commitment to advancing U.S. manufacturing and partnering in communities where our employees live and work. As a hub for life science, research and development, and pharmaceutical manufacturing, CRISP offers unparalleled opportunities for future expansion,” said Sanat Chattopadhyay, executive vice president and president, Merck Manufacturing Division.