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4 March 2004
Vienna based Intercell AG has acquired a state of the art bio-manufacturing plant in Livingston its first in the world.
The company, which develops products and technologies for the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases and cancer, will manufacture vaccines at its new 30,000 square foot facility formerly owned by Excell Biotech. Intercell is also integrating a local team of highly experienced staff with a broad background in process development, manufacturing and quality management of viral and recombinant products.
This strategically very important acquisition will allow Intercell to fully control the clinical and future commercial manufacturing of our Japanese encephalitis vaccine, which is planned to enter Phase III clinical trials in early 2005. Furthermore we will develop and produce our future recombinant bacterial vaccines resulting from our highly efficient Antigen Identification Program at the new Intercell site in Livingston, commented Intercells Chief Operating Officer Gerd Zettlmeissl, who was responsible for Chiron Vaccines global manufacturing and quality operations, before he joined Intercell in late 2001.
Scotlands vibrant science community and excellent reputation for the quality of its research and production was a big incentive for Intercell to expand its operation to Edinburgh, emphasized Alexander von Gabain, Intercells Chief Executive Officer.
Intercell has been supported by Scottish Development International and Scottish Enterprise Edinburgh and Lothian.
Scotlands Enterprise Minister Jim Wallace said:
I am delighted that Intercell has decided to establish a presence in Scotland. The news that the company is to begin operations in the former Excell facility and will be employing some of those affected by Excells receivership is to be warmly welcomed.
This investment is a boost to Scotlands biotechnology sector and is clear recognition of the quality of the workforce in Livingston. I wish Intercell every success in this venture.
Jim McFarlane, Chief Executive, Scottish Enterprise Edinburgh and Lothian, said: The decision by Intercell to establish its first Scottish biomanufacturing operation in Livingston is excellent news. A relatively young company, focusing its research on the development of vaccines for the treatment of infectious diseases and cancer, it is rapidly establishing itself as a leader in its field. They have had real success in raising significant funds in a difficult investment climate. Intercell is an innovative and knowledge driven company that will complement Scotlands growing reputation as a centre of excellence in the field of biotechnology and the life sciences.
He added: It is particularly pleasing that they will utilise the excellent existing facilities formerly occupied by Excell Biotech and create employment for many of that companys employees.
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