French groups announce shared facility

Jean-Frédéric Chibret

Théa, an independent family-owned pharmaceutical group specialised in the development and commercialisation of ophthalmic treatments, and Unither Pharmaceuticals, a French pharmaceutical development and manufacturing company, have signed a long-term strategic industrial partnership aimed at supporting Théa Group’s growth in Europe.

Under this agreement, a new 20,000m² production unit located at the Gannat site (Allier), will be primarily dedicated to the manufacture of Théa’s sterile ophthalmic products – designed and operated by Unither Pharmaceuticals, the facility will represent a key industrial asset ensuring the production of Théa Group products.

The project represents a total investment of more than €140m.

Already under construction, the facility will include several production lines for preservative-free sterile multi-dose bottles and single-dose units. It will ultimately be capable of producing more than 50 million Théa treatments per year for the French and European markets.

The first pharmaceutical validation batches are expected from 2027. Industrial operations are scheduled to begin in 2028, with the first commercial launches in 2029.

Jean-Frédéric Chibret, president of the Théa Group, said: “This agreement goes far beyond a traditional relationship between a pharmaceutical company and an industrial partner. Having a production facility dedicated to our products represents an exceptional commitment that reflects the trust we have built with Unither Pharmaceuticals and our shared long-term vision. This manufacturing capacity will enable us to sustainably support Théa’s growth in Europe while strengthening our industrial presence in France.”

Henrik Krueppe, CEO of Unither Pharmaceuticals, added: “Designing and operating an industrial facility dedicated primarily to a single partner is an unusual approach in our industry. This project illustrates the trust that binds us to Théa and our shared commitment to building a lasting partnership that supports its future growth. Unither Pharmaceuticals is once again demonstrating its ability to forge innovative, long-term agreements to support the growth of its clients and partners both in France and internationally.”

The facilities are expected to be completed by the end of 2026.

Théa ophthalmic products are available to practices in the UK from Théa Pharmaceuticals.