R-Pharm Buys Xcellerex FlexFactory Line

R-Pharm has purchased a 2,000L FlexFactory bioproduction line from Xcellerex for its new biologics manufacturing facility in Yaroslavl, Russia. The facility represents R-Pharm’s entry into large scale manufacturing of biologics in Russia. The company expects to begin production in 2012. Xcellerex will also provide bioprocess services and training to help ensure rapid and efficient transfer of technology and expertise to support cGMP operations.

“Biologics are revolutionizing the treatment of many diseases,” said Alexey Repik, R-Pharm chairman. “R-Pharm has made a strategic commitment to producing these advanced medicines locally to increase their access and affordability to the Russian people. The FlexFactory and the expertise that Xcellerex are providing will significantly accelerate our development and commercial timelines.”  

Xcellerex chief executive officer Guy Broadbent said, “R-Pharm is leveraging Xcellerex’s FlexFactory platform and know-how, proven over 10 years, to fast-track entry into biologics manufacturing. This agreement is an important first step in our strategy to play a key enabling role in the coming wave of Russian investment in biomanufacturing capacity.”