Written by : Dr. Aishwarya Sarthe
February 3, 2025
Contrast media are essential injectable agents in diagnostic imaging that enhance the visualization of organs, blood vessels, and tissues.
GE HealthCare has announced a $138 million investment to expand its contrast media fill-and-finish manufacturing site in Carrigtohill, Cork, Ireland. The expansion aims to address the growing global demand for contrast media, with the new facility expected to be operational by the end of 2027.
Contrast media are essential injectable agents in diagnostic imaging that enhance the visualization of organs, blood vessels, and tissues.
With global demand for iodine-based contrast media expected to double in the next decade—driven by aging populations and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases—GE HealthCare's investment aims to strengthen supply chain resilience.
The 3,000m² facility will include solution preparation vessels, multi-functional powder handling systems, a new filling line, and autoclaves, with advanced automation supporting production.
Once fully operational, the expansion will increase GE HealthCare’s capacity by 25 million patient doses annually. The Cork site and facilities in Shanghai, China, and Oslo, Norway, supplied over 100 million patient doses in 2024.
Kevin O’Neill, President & CEO of GE HealthCare’s Pharmaceutical Diagnostics (PDx) segment, emphasized the company’s commitment to strengthening industry supply chains.
"As an industry leader, we have a responsibility to help meet the growing global demand for contrast media from healthcare providers and their patients. This new facility demonstrates our broader commitment to addressing future demand and increasing the resiliency and security of industry supply for customers," he said.
The Irish government welcomed the investment, recognizing its impact on the local economy and healthcare sector. Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin stated, "GE HealthCare has been manufacturing in Ireland for over 30 years and has invested extensively in the Carrigtohill site and the people working here. I am delighted to welcome this significant new investment here in Cork, which is a testament to the commitment of GE HealthCare in Ireland and our highly skilled workforce."
Michael Lohan, executive director at IDA Ireland, acknowledged the company's long-standing presence in Cork.
"This is the latest of GE HealthCare’s investments in its Cork site, which has produced vital pharmaceuticals for over 30 years. The continued growth and development of the site is a testament to its commitment to serving patients and to Ireland’s leadership and support for the pharmaceutical industry," he said.
Construction is set to begin in February 2025, led by IPS-Integrated Project Services. The project is expected to create over 250 construction jobs.