Pharmaceutical Giant Brings 750 New Jobs to Kenosha County with $3B Investment

PLEASANT PRAIRIE, Wis. (Civic Media) — Eli Lilly and Company announced Thursday that it will invest $3 billion to expand its manufacturing facility in Kenosha County. The expansion aims to increase the production of medicines for diabetes, obesity, and other health conditions.

The investment is expected to create 750 new jobs at the Pleasant Prairie site, which currently has over 130 employees. Construction is set to begin next year and will generate about 2,000 construction jobs.

Eli Lilly acquired the facility from Nexus Pharmaceuticals earlier this year as part of its plan to grow its production capabilities, with operations expected to start by the end of 2025.

🆕 @EliLillyandCo today announced plans to expand its recently acquired manufacturing facility in Kenosha County, investing $3 billion and adding 750 jobs — a development County Executive Samantha Kerkman called historic for the county and the state. https://t.co/oFVifUqV98. pic.twitter.com/FwjUdTd4iB

— Kenosha County (@KenoshaCounty) December 5, 2024

“This is our largest manufacturing investment in the U.S. outside of Indiana,” said Edgardo Hernandez, executive vice president of Lilly Manufacturing Operations. “We are excited to bring high-paying jobs in manufacturing and science to Wisconsin.”

The expansion will include advanced technology like robots and automated vehicles to help speed up production and improve accuracy.

Governor Tony Evers praised the investment, noting that it supports the state’s reputation as a leader in personalized medicine and healthcare innovation. Evers also praised the region, “Southeastern Wisconsin has seen tremendous growth over the past year with major companies announcing significant expansions, and we are thrilled to add Lilly to that growing list with their $3 billion expansion”

Exciting day in Kenosha County as Lilly announces plans to expand its recently acquired manufacturing facility, investing $3B & adding 750 jobs. It will be the Lilly's largest domestic mfg facility outside of their home state of Indiana. Read more: https://t.co/CFlzurWYH0 pic.twitter.com/Kw8JCz0MOo

— KABA (@KABAConnectHere) December 5, 2024