Biopharmaceutical firm Sanofi revealed plans this week to invest €610 million (about $687 million) to open two new vaccine-focused facilities in France, including a new vaccine production facility in Neuville sur Saône and a research center in Marcy-l’Etoile.

The plant and the research center expand Sanofi’s ability to respond to “future pandemic risks,” according to a company release.

“By investing in a new industrial site and a R&D center, Sanofi positions France at the core of its strategy, aiming to make France a world-class center of excellence in vaccine research and production,” the firm’s chief executive officer, Paul Hudson, said in a statement. “Sanofi is a major healthcare player in France, in Europe, and worldwide. It is our responsibility to focus our resources and expertise against the current pandemic, but also to invest in preparing for future ones.”

Over the next five years, Sanofi will dedicate €490 to build the Evolutive Vaccine Facility (EVF) in Neuville sur Saône and outfit the industrial production site with the latest vaccine production technologies. About 200 workers will be hired to staff the facility. 

Operated by the Sanofi’s vaccines entity, Sanofi Pasteur, the plant will be able to produce three to four vaccines at once and capabilities to prioritize production of certain vaccine during public health events. 

€120 million will be invested in the R&D center at Sanofi Pasteur’s existing site in Marcy-l’Etoile. Upon completion, the center will feature specialized vaccines development labs. 

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