Swiss plasma giant expands in Charlotte

The U.S. subsidiary of one of the world's largest plasma products manufacturers is relocating to a new facility it is building in southwest Charlotte, the Charlotte Chamber announced Thursday.

Octapharma AG, an independent firm specializing in human proteins, is investing $39.2 million to build a state-of-the-art facility in the Westlake Business Park. The expansion of the firm's U.S. subsidiary, Octapharma Plasma, will create 45 new full-time positions.

The subsidiary's corporate office moved to Charlotte in 2009. The company said the expansion will position it to serve the U.S. market from one location. "This step is a natural progression in our strategic planning," said Frederic Marguerre, president of Octapharma Plasma.

Octapharma Plasma owns and operates plasma collection centers around the country. The parent company, based in Lachen, Switzerland, serves patients in more than 100 countries.