Sandoz has announced a multi-year partnership to develop and manufacture multiple biosimilars with Just - Evotec Biologics, as the generic drugmaker prepares to stand on its own.
Just - Evotec Biologics, the Seattle-based subsidiary of Germany's Evotec, will give Sandoz the option to access its proprietary drug substance development platform and manufacturing technology. The ecosystem includes an advanced continuous manufacturing process aimed towards enhancing quality and productivity.
The deal with help Sandoz expand its current pipeline from 15 to 24 assets, as well as enable the continued development of its early-stage biosimilar pipeline as the company heads into its split from Novartis, which is expected to take place in the second half of this year.
“It provides us with additional capabilities to support the strategic expansion of our pipeline with new assets and to begin immediately transitioning our early biosimilar pipeline – ensuring continuity in development and manufacturing while Sandoz finalizes its planned separation from Novartis. Development of the biosimilars will ramp-up over the coming 12-18 months,” said Sandoz CEO Richard Saynor.
After months of rumors, Novartis confirmed its intention to separate Sandoz into a new publicly traded standalone company back in August of last year. The 100% spin-off — which will be headquartered in Switzerland — will create Europe's largest generics company by sales.
