HOLLY SPRINGS, N.C. — Global biotech leader Genentech, a member of the Roche Group, officially broke ground Monday on its long-anticipated East Coast manufacturing site in Holly Springs. The $700 million project marks a major milestone in the company’s $50 billion U.S. manufacturing and infrastructure investment strategy.

The new 700,000-square-foot facility will focus on producing metabolic medicines, including next-generation treatments for obesity, and will play a crucial role in expanding U.S. pharmaceutical capacity. Construction is expected to generate 1,500 jobs, while another 420 permanent manufacturing jobs will follow, with an average annual wage of $120,000.

Genentech CEO Ashley Magargee joined federal, state, and local leaders at the groundbreaking ceremony.
“We are proud to break ground on our new manufacturing site in Holly Springs, North Carolina, with its world-class biotech talent, top research institutions, and a robust infrastructure that will enable our growth for years to come,” Magargee said. “With this step, we are taking action to deliver more life-changing medicines to patients faster, contribute to the local economy, and bolster manufacturing and innovation in the US.”

Magargee also voiced support for the federal push to expand U.S.-based pharmaceutical production. She noted the company appreciates the role of U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and the U.S. Investment Accelerator in streamlining processes and breaking down regulatory hurdles that slow the development of large-scale biotech sites.

North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein highlighted how the project strengthens the state’s position as a biotech hub.
“North Carolina has earned its reputation as the best state for business, and Genentech’s decision to put down roots in Holly Springs is further proof of our leadership in the biotech sector,” Stein said. “From our top-tier research universities to our world-class workforce, North Carolina has exactly what companies need to succeed. I am pleased to welcome Genentech to Holly Springs as they expand their operations to the East Coast.”

Long-Term Economic Impact

The facility will rise on a 100-acre lot with room for future expansion. Once completed in 2029, it is projected to bring over $3 billion in economic growth to the state within 12 years.

The project is partially supported by a Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG), allowing for potential reimbursements of up to $9.8 million if job creation targets are met. Additional incentives include:

• $19.7 million from Wake County
• $13.7 million from the Town of Holly Springs
• $827,400 from the N.C. Department of Commerce’s Division of Workforce Solutions
• $756,000 in training support from the N.C. Community College System

A Growing Biotech Corridor

The Holly Springs area is quickly emerging as a biotech manufacturing powerhouse. Earlier this year, Amgen broke ground on its $1 billion facility nearby, while Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies has also announced major expansions. Together, these projects are transforming Wake County into one of the nation’s most dynamic biotech clusters.

Local leaders, including Wake County Commissioner Cheryl Stallings and Holly Springs Mayor Sean Mayefskie, emphasized the broader community benefits, citing job creation, tax revenue growth, and enhanced collaboration with universities and training institutions.

“Genentech’s investment demonstrates confidence not only in our state but in our people,” said State Rep. Erin Paré, R-Wake. “This project will strengthen families and fuel opportunities for decades to come.”

The Holly Springs facility represents Genentech’s first East Coast manufacturing site, positioning the company closer to patients, research partners, and a fast-growing workforce in North Carolina’s Research Triangle.

Originally reported by Theresa Opeka in The Carolina Journal.