Key Takeaways
- Théa and Unither Pharmaceuticals will establish a dedicated 20,000-square-meter manufacturing facility at Unither's Gannat site in France to produce Théa's sterile ophthalmic products
- The facility will manufacture preservative-free multidose bottles and single-dose units, with planned capacity exceeding 50 million treatments annually and commercial production expected to begin in 2029
Théa and Unither Pharmaceuticals have signed a long-term strategic manufacturing partnership that will establish a dedicated production facility for Théa's sterile ophthalmic products at Unither's Gannat site in France, supporting the ophthalmic company's planned growth across Europe.
The approximately 20,000-square-meter facility, located in Gannat in the Allier department of central France, is being designed and operated by Unither Pharmaceuticals and will be primarily dedicated to manufacturing Théa's sterile ophthalmic portfolio. The companies said the arrangement is uncommon in the pharmaceutical industry, where manufacturing sites typically serve multiple customers.
The standalone production unit has been designed to support Théa's long-term manufacturing needs while leveraging Unither's expertise in sterile pharmaceutical production technologies.
The facility, which is already under construction, will house multiple production lines for preservative-free sterile multidose bottles and single-dose units. Once fully operational, it is expected to manufacture more than 50 million Théa treatments annually for the French and broader European markets.
According to the companies, pharmaceutical validation batches are expected to begin in 2027. Industrial production is scheduled to start in 2028, with the first commercial product launches anticipated in 2029.
"This agreement goes far beyond a traditional relationship between a pharmaceutical company and an industrial partner," Jean-Frédéric Chibret, president of Théa Group, said in a statement. "Having a production facility dedicated to our products represents an exceptional commitment that reflects the trust we have built with Unither Pharmaceuticals and our shared long-term vision. This manufacturing capacity will enable us to sustainably support Théa's growth in Europe while strengthening our industrial presence in France."
"Designing and operating an industrial facility dedicated primarily to a single partner is an unusual approach in our industry," said Henrik Krueppe, CEO of Unither Pharmaceuticals. "This project illustrates the trust that binds us to Théa and our shared commitment to building a lasting partnership that supports its future growth."
Beyond expanding manufacturing capacity, the project is expected to deliver a significant economic impact in the Auvergne region. Construction began in March 2025, with completion targeted for the end of 2026. More than 130 workers are currently involved in the construction effort.
The companies expect the facility to create 133 direct jobs by 2028, increasing to nearly 250 positions by 2030. The investment exceeds €140 million and is supported by the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Region through its Pack Relocalisation – Supporting Industrial Investment program.
