AbbVie, one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world, has announced a $195 million investment to expand its manufacturing footprint in North Chicago, Illinois. This expansion is part of the company’s broader $10 billion commitment to U.S. capital projects by 2035 and will center on constructing a new facility for the production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (API). Construction is scheduled to begin in fall 2025, with operations set to launch in 2027.
The new facility will specialize in API production—the key components that deliver the therapeutic effects of medications. By expanding its chemical synthesis capacity, AbbVie aims to support the development and production of both current and next-generation therapies in neuroscience, immunology, and oncology. This project not only reinforces AbbVie’s dedication to innovation but also addresses a growing demand for domestic pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Project Cost: $195 million
Construction Start: Fall 2025
Operational Date: 2027
Facility Purpose: API manufacturing facility to expand domestic pharmaceutical production capacity
Design Considerations: Facility expected to integrate advanced chemical synthesis equipment and infrastructure designed to handle complex multi-step production processes
The new North Chicago plant will:
Expand AbbVie’s domestic API production capacity
Support research and development in neuroscience, immunology, and oncology
Include state-of-the-art chemical synthesis systems
Provide room for future scaling and adaptation to next-generation medical technologies
“AbbVie’s decision to expand its manufacturing footprint in Illinois is a testament to our state’s world-class workforce, infrastructure, cutting-edge research institutions, and location that keeps businesses connected to the nation and the world. As a global leader in pharmaceuticals, AbbVie’s investment in Illinois bolsters our world-class biomanufacturing ecosystem and creates jobs while it innovates next generation medicines.”
Governor of Illinois | JB Pritzker
The construction and operation of this facility will require the expertise of a wide range of trades and professionals, including:
General Contractors & Construction Managers: To oversee project delivery
Structural and Civil Engineers: For foundations and site preparation
Mechanical Engineers & HVAC Specialists: To install and maintain climate-controlled environments critical for pharmaceutical production
Electrical Contractors: To provide power distribution and backup systems
Plumbing and Process Piping Specialists: For clean water and process fluid systems
Specialty Lab Fit-Out Contractors: For installing cleanrooms, laboratory environments, and containment facilities
Instrumentation and Control Technicians: For precise monitoring and automation of production processes
Safety and Compliance Experts: To ensure adherence to pharmaceutical regulations and environmental standards
Fierce Pharma reports that AbbVie already employs more than 11,000 people in Illinois and over 6,000 across its U.S. manufacturing network. This new project will add to that workforce, though the exact number of new positions has not been disclosed. Importantly, AbbVie has entered into an EDGE (Economic Development for a Growing Economy) agreement with the State of Illinois, committing to at least 50 new full-time jobs within three years. The facility will also stimulate indirect employment by generating demand for suppliers, contractors, and specialized service providers.
The $195 million API facility in North Chicago is more than a construction project—it represents a major step forward for both AbbVie and Illinois’ growing pharmaceutical manufacturing sector. By combining cutting-edge design, highly specialized construction trades, and a focus on workforce development, this facility will help position the U.S. as a leader in next-generation medicine production.