Merck Animal Health to Invest $895 Million in Kansas Facility Expansion
Merck Animal Health, a division of Merck & Co. (NYSE: MRK), announced a major investment of $895 million to expand its manufacturing and research operations in De Soto, Kansas. The move marks one of the largest capital investments in the region’s veterinary pharmaceutical sector.
Expansion Details
The investment includes:
$860 million for the expansion of Merck’s existing manufacturing facility.
$35 million to enhance its research and development laboratories.
Commercial manufacturing at the site is expected to begin in 2030, and the project will create more than 200 full-time jobs, according to the company.
Boosting U.S. Vaccine Capacity
Merck Animal Health stated that the expansion will significantly increase the facility’s vaccine filling and freeze-drying capacity, strengthening its ability to stabilize and store veterinary vaccines. This development supports growing global demand for reliable animal health products.
“This investment reinforces our long-term commitment to advancing animal health while strengthening our domestic manufacturing footprint,” said Merck Animal Health in a statement.
State Partnership and National Manufacturing Focus
Merck is working in partnership with the state of Kansas to bring the project to fruition. The announcement follows a broader trend of pharmaceutical companies increasing U.S.-based manufacturing in response to federal efforts to boost domestic production.
Notably, companies like Eli Lilly, Johnson & Johnson, and Gilead have also ramped up stateside investments. A recent executive order signed by former President Donald Trump aims to streamline approvals for pharmaceutical plants and incentivize domestic drug production.
This investment by Merck underscores the strategic importance of Kansas as a hub for animal health innovation and manufacturing.
