FOREIGN INVESTMENT FLOWS INTO HOLLY SPRINGS
Switzerland-based injection systems manufacturer Ypsomed has announced plans to introduce the company’s first U.S. production site in North Carolina. The $195.4 million project will land in Holly Springs, a region well known for its life sciences industry strengths. The strategic location will enable Ypsomed to not only increase current production capacity but grow its global partnerships with proximity to major heavyweights operating in Holly Springs, such as FUJIFILM Biotechnologies and Amgen. “The cooperative approach of the local authorities, the excellent infrastructure, and the proximity to top-tier universities provide ideal conditions for our future growth,” said Ypsomed CEO Simon Michel. “This environment will allow us to attract the skilled workforce we need and to further strengthen our position as a leading supplier of self-injection systems worldwide.” The 110,000-sq.-ft. facility will produce injection systems for self-administered liquid medicines, creating an initial 62 direct jobs with plans to scale.
Photo courtesy of Google
GOOGLE RETURNS TO BELGIUM
Over the next two years, Google will invest more than $5.8 billion into the construction of a brand-new data center campus in St. Ghislain, Belgium. The project aims to scale the country’s digital infrastructure and AI capabilities, while supporting a suite of Google’s popular services for businesses. Located in the Wallonian province of Hainaut, the campus marks the company’s second data center project in the region since 2007. “With today’s announcement, Google is deepening its roots in Belgium, extending our investments in the country and creating new avenues for AI-driven transformation,” said Google Global Infrastructure Vice President Bikash Koley. “Our investments in technical infrastructure and AI skills development help ensure people across Belgium and across Europe have access to opportunity in this exciting era of European innovation.” Google’s investment is expected to bring 300 new jobs to the region. The company announced that it will provide upskilling opportunities through funding local non-profits to provide free AI-skills training to the local workforce.
Photo courtesy of Safran
MOROCCO FLIES WITH EFFICIENCY
Last week, Paris-based global aviation company Safran officially broke ground on a new $140 million LEAP engine maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility in Morocco. Located in the city of Casablanca’s airport zone, the 269,000-sq.-ft. shop will handle MRO services for various single-aisle commercial jets, including the Airbus A320neo and Boeing 737 MAX. This news was followed by the company’s commitment to produce LEAP-1A engines specifically for Airbus in Morocco, supporting increased engine production capacity at its Villaroche, France, location. The Casablanca site is expected to handle approximately 150 engines per year once operational in 2027. “By strengthening its presence here, Safran demonstrates its strong commitment to developing the Moroccan aerospace industry and boosting the local economy,” said Safran CEO Olivier Andriès. “These two new facilities will showcase both Safran and Morocco’s industrial excellence.” In addition to the MRO facility and a planned engine assembly line in Morocco, Safran also will expand its Safran Aerosystems site in Tiflet, its Electronics & Defense facility in Casablanca and its Electrical & Power facility in Ain Atiq. These investments will create a combined 2,000 new jobs throughout the country.
Reports compiled and written by Alexis Elmore
