Eli Lilly to spend additional $180m to expand insulin manufacturing operations in Indianapolis

As part of the proposed $180m investment, Lilly would add second insulin cartridge-filling line in addition to one under previously announced $140m expansion.

The company also expects to increase its insulin-active-ingredient manufacturing capacity at the same time maintaining quality standards.

Lilly Diabetes president Enrique Conterno said, "We have one of the strongest diabetes pipelines in our history–including four molecules in late-stage development–that could help support the needs of people with diabetes."

Construction of the additional insulin-cartridge-filling line is expected to complete in 2016 while construction related to the insulin-active-ingredient is expected to complete in December 2013.

Around 175 technicians, scientists, and engineers are required to mange operations in the cartridge-filling and insulin-active-ingredient manufacturing areas upon the commencement of operations.

Lilly manufacturing global parenteral drug product and delivery devices senior vice president Myles O’Neill said, "We believe Indianapolis is a good place for this investment, as we will continue to benefit from the engaged, committed, and highly skilled work force we have in this city."

Other ancillary investment projects valued at $80m, including a $40m product-inspection center are under proposal.