Merck Breaks Ground on $1B Biologics Center in Delaware

Merck, known as MSD outside the U.S. and Canada, has announced the start of construction on a $1 billion, 470,000-square-foot Biologics Center of Excellence in Wilmington, Delaware. Named Merck Wilmington Biotech, the new facility represents a major investment in U.S. innovation, infrastructure, and biopharmaceutical manufacturing.

The state-of-the-art site will feature advanced laboratory, manufacturing, and warehouse capabilities. It is designed to support the launch and commercial-scale production of next-generation biologics, including potent antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). This move aligns with Merck’s strategic goal of expanding and diversifying its research and development pipeline to meet growing healthcare needs.

One of the core functions of the new facility will be the manufacturing of KEYTRUDA (pembrolizumab), Merck’s flagship immuno-oncology therapy and the world’s best-selling cancer treatment. Merck plans to establish the site as the future U.S. production hub for KEYTRUDA, helping ensure greater proximity and supply reliability for American patients. In addition to KEYTRUDA, the center will support Merck’s broader biologics portfolio, reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to delivering cutting-edge therapies to patients across the country.

The project is expected to generate substantial economic benefits for the region, with the potential to create thousands of high-paying jobs in Delaware and the surrounding area. Merck also plans to explore further expansion at the site in the coming years as demand for biologics continues to rise.

“This new biotech facility highlights our commitment to U.S. manufacturing and ensures we can deliver innovative medicines closer to the patients who need them,” said Merck Chairman and CEO Robert M. Davis. “It’s an important step in growing our biologics capabilities and investing in the future of healthcare.”

Construction is now underway, marking a significant milestone in Merck’s continued investment in American biopharmaceutical excellence.