Tempe, Arizona, January 13, 2026
AbbVie, the Chicago-based pharmaceutical company, has reached a definitive agreement to acquire a device manufacturing facility in Tempe, Arizona, indicating strong confidence in the region’s bioscience sector. The acquisition involves an investment of over $175 million and is expected to create approximately 200 new jobs, supporting the production of advanced medical technologies. This strategic move aligns with AbbVie’s commitment to invest over $10 billion in U.S. manufacturing over the next decade and highlights Arizona’s growing reputation as a hub for medical innovation.
Tempe Attracts Major Investment as AbbVie Expands U.S. Manufacturing Footprint
Phoenix, AZ – The Greater Phoenix area continues to cement its reputation as a burgeoning hub for medical technology and innovation, underscored by the recent definitive agreement for Chicago-based pharmaceutical giant AbbVie to acquire a significant device manufacturing facility in Tempe. This move signals a substantial vote of confidence in Arizona’s growing bioscience sector and highlights the advantages of a business environment that champions private investment and fosters economic expansion. The transaction involves AbbVie acquiring a facility and associated intellectual property from West Pharmaceutical Services, a strategic decision poised to bolster the region’s economic vitality and job market.
This acquisition is more than just a corporate transaction; it represents a tangible example of entrepreneurial innovation attracting significant capital and a commitment to American manufacturing. With global companies choosing to expand their operations in the U.S., particularly in dynamic markets like Arizona, it reinforces the appeal of stable regulatory frameworks and a skilled workforce. The ongoing private sector investment in the state’s bioscience industry is crucial for sustaining growth and delivering cutting-edge medical solutions.
Strategic Expansion and Investment in Arizona
AbbVie’s decision to acquire the Tempe facility from West Pharmaceutical Services is a strategic step to significantly expand its drug delivery device manufacturing capabilities and capacity. This expansion is part of a broader commitment by AbbVie to invest over $10 billion in capital in the United States over the next decade to support innovation and expand manufacturing capabilities.
The acquisition, which is anticipated to close in mid-2026, will see AbbVie invest more than $175 million to acquire, modernize, and fully integrate the facility into its global manufacturing network. This substantial financial commitment underscores the company’s long-term vision and belief in the potential of the Tempe site.
Job Creation and Economic Boost for Phoenix AZ Business
A key benefit of this acquisition for the local economy will be the creation of approximately 200 new jobs at the Tempe site. This influx of high-quality employment opportunities will attract skilled professionals to the region, further enriching Arizona’s talent pool in the bioscience and manufacturing sectors. The expansion of AbbVie’s presence is expected to significantly enhance its economic impact in Arizona.
Arizona’s bioscience industry has been a significant contributor to the state’s economy, generating $43.64 billion in economic impact in 2023, a growth of over 13% in two years from $38.54 billion in 2021. The sector also saw an increase in the number of life science companies from 2,912 in 2021 to 3,652 in 2023, and employment grew from 36,410 to 40,399 during the same period. This robust growth showcases the state’s success in fostering a dynamic environment for health innovation.
Advancing Medical Technology and Innovation
The newly acquired facility will play a critical role in supporting the production of AbbVie’s current and next-generation immunology and neuroscience medicines. The transaction includes the transfer of manufacturing facilities, multiple production lines, and 3.5 mL on-body injector technology. This technology is vital for advanced drug delivery systems, signifying a step forward in medical device innovation within the state.
Arizona’s health innovation sector specializes in precision medicine, biomarkers, diagnostics, health information technologies, neurosciences, cancer, and genomic research. The state has fostered an environment conducive to advancing innovative healthcare technologies, medicines, and medical devices.
Arizona’s Favorable Business Environment
The state of Arizona has actively positioned itself as a leading destination for bioscience and medical technology companies. This success is attributed to a pro-business, pro-innovation environment, strategic recruitment efforts by state and federal leaders, and funding from various sources including private industry. The pharmaceutical industry in Arizona thrives on combining innovative research with quality manufacturing, focusing on specialized medications and medical equipment.
The growth in telemedicine, personalized medicine, and biotechnology reflects a statewide trend toward individualized care and efficiency. With increasing investments in biotech, Arizona is developing into a fertile ground for pharmaceutical advancements, promising to enhance both local and national healthcare delivery.
Community Impact and Future Outlook for Phoenix Small Business
The expansion of large pharmaceutical companies like AbbVie in Tempe creates a positive ripple effect throughout the local economy, benefiting small businesses and service providers in the area. It strengthens the overall economic fabric of Phoenix and its surrounding communities, contributing to a diverse and resilient local economy. Such investments also inspire local entrepreneurs and startups, demonstrating the potential for growth and success within the state’s thriving bioscience ecosystem. The Phoenix metropolitan area, in particular, has seen a significant increase in life science infrastructure development, with over 6 million square feet currently underway, positioning Arizona for continued growth.
The future of medical device manufacturing in Greater Phoenix appears bright, with collaborative efforts between public and private entities, alongside a strategic vision like the Flinn Foundation’s Bioscience Roadmap, continuing to drive the sector forward. This collective approach helps to build a world-class manufacturing hub, supporting both established industry leaders and nurturing future innovators.
The ongoing commitment to fostering an environment where innovation flourishes and private investment is welcomed is vital for Arizona’s continued economic success. We encourage our readers to stay engaged in Phoenix’s economic future and support the businesses that contribute to our community’s prosperity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What company is acquiring a medical device manufacturing facility in Tempe, Arizona?
Chicago-based pharmaceutical giant AbbVie is acquiring a device manufacturing facility in Tempe, Arizona.
Who is selling the Tempe facility to AbbVie?
AbbVie is acquiring the facility and associated intellectual property from West Pharmaceutical Services.
What is the expected investment by AbbVie in the Tempe facility?
AbbVie plans to invest more than $175 million to acquire, modernize, and fully integrate the facility into its global manufacturing network.
How many new jobs will be created by this acquisition in Tempe?
AbbVie plans to hire approximately 200 employees at the Tempe site.
When is the acquisition expected to close?
The acquisition is anticipated to close in mid-2026.
What types of products will be manufactured at the facility?
The facility will support the production of AbbVie’s current and next-generation immunology and neuroscience medicines, including facilities with multiple production lines and 3.5 mL on-body injector technology.
What is the overall economic impact of the bioscience industry in Arizona?
Arizona’s bioscience industry generated $43.64 billion in economic impact in 2023.
How has employment grown in Arizona’s bioscience sector?
Employment in Arizona’s bioscience sector grew from 36,410 in 2021 to 40,399 in 2023.
Key Features of AbbVie’s Tempe Acquisition
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Acquiring Company | AbbVie (Chicago-based pharmaceutical giant) | Nationwide |
| Acquired Entity/Asset | Device manufacturing facility and associated intellectual property from West Pharmaceutical Services | State-level (Tempe, Arizona) |
| Location | Tempe, Arizona | State-level |
| Investment Amount | More than $175 million (to acquire, modernize, and integrate) | State-level |
| Estimated New Jobs | Approximately 200 employees | State-level |
| Anticipated Closing | Mid-2026 | Nationwide (Company-specific transaction timeline) |
| Products to be Manufactured | Current and next-generation immunology and neuroscience medicines, utilizing 3.5 mL on-body injector technology | Nationwide (Company product focus) |
| Broader Company Commitment | Part of AbbVie’s commitment to invest over $10 billion in capital in the United States over the next decade | Nationwide |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
