Pfizer has inked a deal to acquire Abzena’s manufacturing plant, which boasts 'extensive capabilities' for the production of the biologics drug substance. The deal is expected to close this quarter.

Construction is ongoing at the location, which Abzena selected back in April 2021 for its “access to a talented workforce and other resources.” Abzena said at the time that the new facility would cost more than $200 million and create about 325 jobs in Sanford.

While just 100 employees work there now, Pfizer expects to bring that number up to about 300 by 2025, bringing its total North Carolina workforce to around 4,500, according to a news release. The pharma giant has poured $5 billion into its US manufacturing capabilities over the last five years, including $1.4 billion in North Carolina.

The Sanford facility was Abzena’s only site in North Carolina, though the San Diego-based company lists other locations in California, Pennsylvania and the UK.