A Devon pharmaceutical manufacturer is creating jobs after production of Covid vaccines saw it experiencing huge growth in 2021.
North Devon-based Pall Ilfracombe has a proven history in developing innovative processing for new drug development and vaccine production.
So, when a vaccine was developed as the answer to the global Covid pandemic, the team at the Ilfracombe plant were able to quickly and efficiently upscale their manufacturing processes to support mass production of the vaccines. It led to a 40% growth in production in 2021 and the plant is now preparing for a level of growth of up to 12% a year.
Deen Harman, vice-president of Operations, said: “It’s truly amazing to think that a seaside town in North Devon is playing such an essential part in the global vaccine effort. I think it is just beginning to dawn on the team here how critical the work they do has been in helping to combat Covid.
“This truly was a team effort and one we can all take pride in. All variants of the Covid vaccine use Pall products manufactured right here in our Ilfracombe plant.”
Peter Brocklesby, plant manager, said: “The demand for a worldwide vaccine meant a 40% growth in production at our Ilfracombe plant. Working in healthcare, things are always changing and we prepare for a level of growth of between 8-12% per year.
“However, no one could have foreseen this rise in demand for our products. It is testament to our amazing team here that we were able to pull together to meet this need. I am so proud of what we have achieved and the crucial part we have played in the global vaccine production.”
Built in 1978 on the old railway station, Pall Ilfracombe started with just 50 employees. Now employing 850 associates, and currently recruiting, Pall manufactures products for cancer and gene therapy as well as other vaccines, including the flu vaccine.
Mr Brocklesby said: “Products made in Ilfracombe help protect and purify a wide range of foods, drinks, pharmaceutical drugs and vaccines of every kind. Without a doubt, these products play a big role in improving our daily lives, as well as our global health.
“All Pall associates are proud to support the life changing drugs we are part of and the products and solutions that our products have on the world.”
Workers have recently had the chance to share in the success during an internal “proudest moments” campaign. One staff member said: “Knowing our products have such an enormous impact on society makes me proud to be part of this company. Whether it’s Covid-19 vaccines or gene therapy, our work plays an important role. We help to save lives and improve quality of life.”
