21 Nov 2014 Elanco Announces $100 million Investment in Augusta
Elanco Announces Major Capital Expansion at Augusta Technology Center
Elanco, the animal health division of Eli Lilly and Company, announced today a $100,000,000 investment in infrastructure and manufacturing enhancements at the Augusta Technology Center, creating 100 new jobs over the next three years. Improvements are already underway at the site.
The plant is currently operating near maximum capacity, prompting Elanco to invest in the capital expansion necessary to meet customers’ growing demand. More than 250 people are currently employed at Elanco’s manufacturing facility in Augusta, producing animal health products used by farmers around the globe. Elanco anticipates that the number of new jobs ultimately created as a result of the expansion will be contingent on new market approvals for Elanco products.
The Augusta plant and its employees play an important role at Elanco and for the company’s customers. VP of Manufacturing at Elanco, Steve Jenison, said, “An investment of this size is a testament to the performance of our operations in Augusta. We have every confidence in our employees at the site and the value our products bring to our customers.”
General Manager at the Augusta Technology Center, Kevin Trivett, said being located in Augusta is an asset to the company’s operations, saying “We feel very fortunate to have partnered with a community whose workforce is highly skilled, engaged and committed to our vision of meeting a global demand for more of our animal health products.”
Henry Ingram, Chairman of the Augusta Economic Development Authority, said, “The investment of $100,000,000 is significant for our community and soon, more of our neighbors will be employed, thanks to Elanco’s investment in Augusta.”
Mayor Deke Copenhaver also commended the company’s decision to expand its presence in Augusta. “With their yearly efforts to help break the cycle of hunger locally as well as in 100 other communities worldwide, Elanco is a fine example of what it means to be a community partner. I would like to personally thank the Elanco team for this investment and for all that the company does to help make our city a great place.”
As an OSHA Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) “Star” worksite, the Augusta Technology Center is recognized for its comprehensive safety and health management programs. From a community reinvestment perspective, Elanco provides opportunities for employees to volunteer in the community and supports local sustainability initiatives. The Augusta Technology Center has implemented wildlife habitat initiatives at the site as well as at a farm owned by the company in Burke County. The site donates food and a portion of the crop proceeds to benefit local and global food relief agencies. Expansion efforts at the Augusta Technology Center began this fall, with a groundbreaking dedication for employees and company officials at the site. The company expects the facility to be fully operational by 2017.
Source: Press Release: Augusta Economic Development Authority
Author: Waler C. Sprouse, Jr./Executive Director