March 6, 2024
Zoetis expands operations with acquisition of manufacturing site in Australia
Animal health company Zoetis has acquired a 21-acre manufacturing site in Melbourne, Australia, signalling a significant expansion of its operations aimed at bolstering vaccine production for a range of animals including sheep and cattle, AuManufacturing reported.
The expansion, which comes as Zoetis produces 130 million doses of vaccines annually for companion animals and livestock in Australia, aims to enhance the development of vaccines, medicines, and diagnostic tools crucial for maintaining animal health and productivity.
Kristin Peck, CEO of Zoetis, emphasised the importance of the livestock sector in Australia, contributing AUD 67 billion (US$43.6 billion) annually to the economy and providing employment to 428,000 individuals. Peck highlighted Zoetis' commitment to supporting livestock farmers in contributing to climate solutions while improving productivity and welfare outcomes.
Operating at its Parkville site in Melbourne since 2004, Zoetis expanded its production capabilities with the acquisition of veterinary pharmaceutical manufacturer Jurox in 2022, further solidifying its presence in the region.
At the Parkville facility, Zoetis manufactures a range of vaccines for livestock including Ultravac, Pestigard, and Vibrovax for cattle, and Glanvac, GlanEry, and Scabigard for sheep. The site also produces Equivac vaccines for swine.
Lance Williams, senior vice president and Zoetis' ANZ lead, stressed the importance of local manufacturing, particularly underscored in recent years. He reiterated Zoetis' dedication to supporting Australian farmers and veterinarians, ensuring a healthy livestock sector and sustaining productivity and profitability.
The investment in the Melbourne site marks a substantial expansion for Zoetis, with its footprint set to grow fivefold in the years ahead. The company employs 426 individuals and recorded AUD 484 million (US$315 million) in product sales in Australia in 2023.
- AuManufacturing
