GE Healthcare has announced a significant investment of $138 million to expand its contrast media manufacturing site in Carrigtohill, Cork, Ireland. The announcement was made during a groundbreaking ceremony attended by Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin, marking a pivotal moment for the company’s operations in the region.
The expansion will take place at the existing facility in Carrigtohill and aims to increase production capacity by an impressive 25 million annual doses of contrast media by the end of 2027. This move comes in response to the surging global demand for these essential medical products, which are critical for various imaging procedures.
Spanning 3,000 square metres, the new facility will feature advanced infrastructure, including a new filling line, multipurpose powder handling systems, solution preparation vessels, autoclaves, and cutting-edge automation systems. These enhancements are designed to support both new and established products, enabling GE Healthcare to meet the increasing global demand effectively.
The need for iodine-based contrast media is expected to double over the next decade, driven by ageing populations and a rise in chronic illnesses worldwide. In 2024, GE Healthcare’s global production facilities manufactured over 100 million doses of contrast media, underscoring the vital role the company plays in the healthcare industry.
Kevin O’Neill, President and CEO of GE Healthcare’s pharmaceutical diagnostics segment, commented on the investment, stating, “As an industry leader, we have a responsibility to help meet the growing global demand for contrast media from healthcare providers and their patients. This new facility demonstrates our broader commitment not just to address future demand, but also to increase resiliency and security of industry supply for customers.”
Beyond its focus on contrast media, GE Healthcare’s pharmaceutical diagnostics division is dedicated to developing and supplying radiopharmaceuticals that aid in diagnosing, monitoring, and selecting treatment options across clinical pathways in fields such as neurology, cardiology, and oncology. The division employs over 4,000 people globally, highlighting its significant impact on the workforce and the industry.
The project will be led by engineering firm IPS-Integrated Project Services, with construction set to commence in February 2025. This expansion is expected to create over 250 construction jobs, further contributing to the local economy.
In summary, GE Healthcare’s $138 million investment in its Cork facility marks a crucial step in expanding its production capabilities and meeting the rising demand for contrast media, ensuring better healthcare solutions for patients worldwide.
