HOLLY SPRINGS, N.C. — Genentech, a biotechnology company and member of the Roche Group, has topped out its new $2 billion manufacturing facility in Holly Springs, about 20 miles southwest of Raleigh. The construction milestone marks the completion of the building’s structural framework.
The project is Genentech’s first East Coast manufacturing facility. The development was initially announced in May 2025, followed by the groundbreaking in August 2025 and an expansion announcement in January 2026.
Once operational, the facility will produce next-generation treatments for metabolic conditions such as obesity. Its operations will incorporate advanced biomanufacturing, automation, robotics and the latest digital manufacturing technologies. The investment in technology includes an advanced digital twin — an artificial intelligence-powered virtual model of the manufacturing facility designed to simulate operations and test scenarios before real-world implementation.
The facility is expected to support more than 2,000 jobs, including 500 manufacturing roles and 1,500 construction jobs. Genentech is also partnering with local academic institutions to prepare future members of the workforce for manufacturing careers.
The project is part of Switzerland-based Roche and Genentech’s broader $50 billion commitment to research and development (R&D) and manufacturing infrastructure in the United States. Roche and Genentech’s current U.S. footprint includes 13 manufacturing sites, 15 R&D sites and approximately 25,000 employees across 24 locations in eight states.
“Through Genentech, Roche is making long-term investments in advanced U.S. manufacturing because we believe America will continue to play a critical role in the future of biomedical innovation,” says Teresa Graham, CEO of Roche Pharmaceuticals.
Founded 50 years ago, Genentech discovers, develops, manufactures and commercializes medicines to treat patients with serious and life-threatening conditions. The company maintains its U.S. headquarters in South San Francisco.
— Kristin Harlow