UCB Farchim SA

Edelweiss

Pharmaplan as EPCMV partner for UCB has designed and built one of the largest biotech production facilities in Europe within 28 months. Two years after successful hand-over, Pharmaplan supported UCB again for the production capacity increase for Cimzia™ to 1,000 kg/year.

UCB’s new greenfield facility for antibody production against rheumatoid arthritis is the main production center for Cimzia™. It is fitted with ultra-modern laboratories and a highly automated production line. One of the main challenges was the ambitious schedule, that aimed fast track finalization in 28 months from conceptual design to operational qualification.

Design Highlights

The high emphasis on the low footprint on the environment, with high sustainability goals went along with full ASTM2500 implementation. The Edelweiss has been one of the largest biotech projects in Europe for many years. Another highlight is the lean approach with clear focus on value and value flow throughout the entire project.

Facts & Figures

Project

Edelweiss

Location

Bulle, Switzerland

Customer

UCB Farchim SA

Duration

2011-2014 (2017 capacity
increase)

TIC

172 m. CHF