The new facility and automated production lines will increase production capacity by 20% compared to the current capacity of 200 million packages per year. The expansion in finished dosage forms (FDF) means that Kundl now has a production capacity of 240 million packages per year, more than a doubling from 2021 output levels. The new facility is part of a €200 million investment into the site in Kundl, to significantly upgrade penicillin API manufacturing and increase output of finished products.

Gilbert Ghostine, Chairman Sandoz, commented "Antibiotics are the backbone of modern medicine and Kundl is a testament to the resilience of European manufacturing. We are proud to further strengthen our manufacturing capabilities in Austria. This allows us to address growing demand and further strengthens our commitment to our unique European-based antibiotic production network."

With a manufacturing area of 3,000m², innovative technologies enable the production of one billion additional penicillin tablets and a doubling of the quantity of powder oral suspensions (POS), which are mainly used in pediatric medicines. 

Sandoz has the only major remaining vertically integrated production network for penicillin in Europe. From active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) to FDF, Sandoz produces penicillin, the leading category of antibiotics worldwide, in Austria.

Richard Saynor, CEO Sandoz, said, "Kundl, as the hub and center of our antibiotic production, is a true lighthouse project when it comes to security of antibiotic supply. This investment is our contribution to fighting shortages and increasing access for patients. To be successful in the future, we need to join forces across healthcare systems and build a sustainable market environment for generic medicines, focused on what is best for patients."