The largest drug maker in Japan, Takeda Pharmaceutical Co., announced it would open its first U.S. manufacturing operation with the purchase of a biologics facility in Brooklyn Park.
 
In a Tuesday release, the Osaka, Japan-based company said it would use the site to primarily manufacture Entyvio, a prescription medication used to treat Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. Takeda, which also develops medicines for treating cancer, gastrointestinal disorders and diabetes, said its move to a state with a renowned bioscience industry carries many advantages.
 
“Acquiring the state-of-the-art Brooklyn Park facility and gaining access to a highly experienced and dedicated team is a very important strategic benefit for Takeda,” Takeda’s global manufacturing and supply officer Thomas Wozniewski said in a statement.
 
The facility was purchased from Baxalta, a Bannockburn, Illinois-based pharmaceutical company, for an undisclosed amount. A spokesperson from Baxalta told TCB in an email that the site was put up for sale last year because “the Brooklyn Park facility…would have required significant investments to upgrade its capabilities.”

Takeda said it plans to grow its manufacturing operations in Brooklyn Park beyond Entyvio and toward other commercial products, as well as “investigational drugs under clinical development.”

Lieutenant Governor Tina Smith said in a statement, “We rank among the best nationally in the biosciences, generating more patents and jobs on a per capita basis than almost every other state. Takada Pharmaceutical Company will be a great addition to our state’s bioscience sector, and we are glad to welcome them to Minnesota.”

In a release, Brooklyn Park Mayor Jeffrey Lunde said he hopes Takeda’s entry will “join the city’s growing headquarter and manufacturing corridor along Highway 610” along with attracting and retaining high-quality jobs to that area.
 
Takeda, which is the parent company to 165 pharmaceutical brands and companies, reported 2014 annual revenue of $16.2 billion.