Cambrex has kicked off construction of a new R&D facility at its site in Milan, Italy, the East Rutherford-based contract development and manufacturing organization announced Aug. 11.

The $30 million investment will add advanced analytical development and process R&D capabilities. It will also upgrade multiple production plants, the company noted.

Cambrex offers its clients drug substance development and manufacturing along with comprehensive analytical services.

The expansion is expected to be completed in the second half of 2027, Cambrex said. The company also acquired additional land adjacent to the site for future growth.

The Cambrex Profarmico Milano site marks its 80th anniversary this year.

“Breaking ground on this new facility is a testament to the enduring legacy and expertise of our Milan team,” Cambrex Chief Operating Officer Claudio Russolo said in a statement. “For 80 years, this site has been a cornerstone of pharmaceutical manufacturing in Europe. With this expansion, we are investing not only in new technologies and capabilities, but in the future of our people and our partners.”

In March, the CDMO announced “significant progress” on its $120 million Midwest expansion, noting it completed initial engineering studies for an expanded facility in Charles City, Iowa. At that time, Cambrex announced plans for the Milan expansion.

In 2024, the company added more than 150,000 square feet of capacity across its North American and European network. That work came as part of a five-year, $100 million investment strategy.