The Sanford Area Growth Alliance (SAGA) is committed to expanding Lee County’s economic base by attracting new industries and supporting the growth and sustainability of existing businesses. A recent success in these efforts is the arrival of Kyowa Kirin, a Japan-based global specialty pharmaceutical company. Kyowa Kirin, known for its innovative drug discovery efforts that positively impact human health, has chosen Sanford as the location for its first North American site.
The name Kyowa Kirin may sound familiar, as the company’s heritage dates back to the establishment of Kirin Brewery Co. Ltd. in 1907, producer of the globally recognized Kirin Beer. However, Sanford will not be getting a Kirin brewery. Instead, the life sciences division of Kyowa Kirin has ambitious plans that will soon become part of our community’s story. The company focuses on biotechnology research and commercialization, specifically in the treatment and cure of bone and mineral disorders, intractable hematological diseases, hematology oncology (blood cancers), and other rare conditions.
Sanford was a natural fit for Kyowa Kirin’s expansion due to the presence of other life sciences leaders in the area and the talent they attract. Kyowa Kirin will benefit not only from the skilled workforce in Lee County and the Research Triangle but also from the network of small and large businesses that will contribute to the facility’s design, construction, and long-term productivity. SAGA has played a crucial role in assisting Kyowa Kirin as they begin work on their site and seek temporary office space in Lee County while awaiting the facility’s construction. Impressively, all new hires we’ve assisted so far have been local to North Carolina. As construction begins soon, local contractors and suppliers are being lined up to support this $530 million investment located in the Helix Innovation Park at the Brickyard.
Excitement is building as a groundbreaking ceremony for the facility approaches. Once again, Kyowa Kirin has embraced the local community. SAGA has worked closely with their team to incorporate all things Sanford into the event. The company was eager to engage with and appreciate the community from the start, showcasing “tastes of Sanford” with treats from local businesses like PopHeaven of Broadway, Boston Fruit Slices of Jonesboro, and Millie’s Mama Bakes in downtown Sanford. Additionally, SAGA has introduced Kyowa Kirin to many local restaurants and caterers, who will serve as future lunch and catering providers for their facility events. This collaboration highlights the value of being part of the SAGA Chamber of Commerce, where local businesses connect and thrive together.
Sanford has the local talent and resources the life sciences industry needs, and the industry has taken notice. With strong existing industries, excellent educational opportunities at CCCC, and proximity to some of the nation’s top universities, we are a significant player in this field. Kyowa Kirin’s move into 75 acres in the Helix Innovation Park is just the beginning, with over 800 acres remaining for future life sciences and advanced manufacturing developments, we are sure to see many new opportunities for decades to come.
Crystal Gaddy, Business Retention and Expansion Manager