INCOG, a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), recently made a substantial investment to expand its capabilities in the sterile injectables sector. In February 2024, the company committed $75 million to install an Optima syringe and cartridge filling line, projected to be GMP ready by September 2025. The expansion is geared towards meeting the ever-growing demand for sterile injectables, significantly enhancing the company’s capacity. This initiative is poised to provide an additional 100 million units of syringe and cartridge filling capacity, addressing the increasing needs of the biopharma industry.
New Capabilities and Infrastructure
The expansion is set to transform INCOG’s operational capabilities. With the introduction of advanced machinery, including the high-speed Optima syringe and cartridge filling line, the company will substantially boost its production efficiency. This new line, expected to be GMP ready soon, will enable the processing of larger-scale commercial projects. Additionally, the expansion includes device assembly for autoinjectors, pens, wearable injectors, and syringe accessorizing. This comprehensive approach ensures that INCOG can cater to a broad spectrum of client requirements within the sterile injectables domain. CEO Cory Lewis emphasized that the high-speed filling line would reinforce INCOG’s commitment to providing full-spectrum solutions for its clients.
The initial filling line installed in October 2022 already demonstrated significant capabilities, processing up to 9,000 units per hour with strict in-process controls. This foundation set the stage for the current expansion, which aims to further augment production capacity and quality standards. With the projected addition of over 350 employees to manage the expanded operations, INCOG is set to become a critical player in the sterile injectables market, underscoring its growth ambitions and dedication to meeting industry demands.
Workforce and Commercial Impact
Expanding the workforce and enhancing services are crucial components of INCOG’s growth strategy. Doug Dayhoff, the company’s CFO, highlighted the significance of scaling up the workforce to maintain high service standards and foster company growth. The facility in Fishers, established in May 2022 as the company headquarters, spans 90,000 square feet and is a testament to INCOG’s long-term vision. It serves as a hub for innovation, equipped to support the complex needs of sterile injectable manufacturing.
The investment reflects a broader trend within the biopharma industry, where demand for efficient syringe and cartridge filling solutions is surging. By ramping up its production capabilities and expanding its workforce, INCOG is positioning itself to not only meet current demands but also anticipate future market shifts. The company’s emphasis on incorporating cutting-edge machinery and stringent quality controls aligns with its mission to be at the forefront of biopharma innovation. The expansion symbolizes trust in its ability to deliver reliable, high-quality injectables on a commercial scale, ensuring the fulfillment of client needs effectively and promptly.
Future Prospects
INCOG’s $75 million investment in the Optima syringe and cartridge filling line reflects its proactive approach to addressing the surging demand for sterile injectables. This strategic move is expected to significantly enhance its production capacity and meet the biopharma industry’s growing requirements. By incorporating advanced technology and infrastructure, INCOG aims to solidify its position as a key player in the pharmaceutical manufacturing landscape, ensuring its ability to support the evolving needs of its clients.
