Under the freshly inked agreement, Lonza will provide Vaxcyte a custom-built manufacturing suite within the Ibex Dedicate Biopark at its Visp location in the canton of Valais. This suite will be instrumental in producing essential components, including drug substances, for Vaxcyte’s PCV projects. The suite’s design is nearing its completion, and the installation of equipment is slated to begin in 2024. The facility expansion is expected to generate up to 300 new employment opportunities as it reaches its peak capacity.
Vaxcyte is focused on engineering high-fidelity vaccines to safeguard humans from the repercussions of bacterial diseases. Their lead candidate, VAX-24, targets the prevention of invasive pneumococcal disease (IPD). Their innovative approach to producing complex vaccines, including advanced chemistry and the XpressCF cell-free protein synthesis platform, seeks to fast-track the creation and delivery of potent vaccines.
Highlighting the significance of this partnership, Grant Pickering, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of Vaxcyte, commented: “Following the successful completion of our VAX-24 Phase 2 adult studies, we are excited to expand our relationship with Lonza.” He expressed confidence in the new dedicated manufacturing suite, believing it will effectively scale up to address the potential supply demands for VAX-24 and subsequently VAX-31, on a global scale.
Vaxcyte’s progress over the past year has been notable, especially with its VAX-24 clinical program. Positive outcomes from two Phase 2 studies in adults and the initiation of a Phase 2 study in infants further solidify its position.
Reinforcing a long-standing partnership
“Our expanded relationship with Vaxcyte highlights the value of our services on the path towards commercialization,” said Jean-Christophe Hyvert, President of the Biologics Division at Lonza. “Having supported the early-stage clinical development of Vaxcyte’s PCV programs, we are pleased to continue our long-standing collaboration by supporting the late-stage clinical manufacturing utilizing our unique Ibex Dedicate offering.”
Founded in 1897 in the Swiss Alps, Lonza today stands as a global frontrunner in the pharmaceutical, biotech, and nutrition sectors. With approximately 17,500 employees, Lonza aims to foster a healthier world by assisting customers in unveiling innovative medicines for a myriad of diseases. The company reported sales of CHF 3.1 billion with a CORE EBITDA of CHF 922 million in the first half of 2023.
