Roche has given the official starting signal for a new laboratory building at the Penzberg site with a ceremonial laying of the foundation stone. The new building is part of a strategic investment of around 40 million euros and will be used to produce reagents for the new “sequencing by expansion” (SBX) technology. This technology is part of the next generation of DNA sequencing and is used in particular for research into complex diseases such as cancer, immune and neurodegenerative diseases.
“The investment of over 40 million euros in this new technology underlines the role of Penzberg as an innovation location for research and production within the Roche Group,” explained Paul Wiggermann, Site Manager of Roche in Penzberg. The SBX technology enables rapid and highly precise analysis of genetic information and opens up new possibilities for molecular diagnostics.
Regional production site with strong specialization
The Penzberg production site has more than 50 years of experience, particularly in organic chemistry. This expertise was a key factor in the decision to locate SBX production in the region. “Our employees have unique expertise in production, which is essential for the complex input materials of the pioneering SBX technology,” emphasized Marco Cairoli, Head of Diagnostics Production at the site.
In future, around 20 different diagnostic input materials will be produced in the new laboratory building - including twelve main products. Four separate laboratories, based on the four DNA bases, will allow the production lines to be physically separated. This structure is intended to prevent cross-contamination and ensure the quality of the products.
SBX as a further development of NGS technology
"Sequencing by expansion" (SBX) is a further development of next-generation sequencing (NGS) technologies. It enables flexible, scalable and high-resolution analysis of genetic information. SBX was developed to meet the increasing demands for speed, accuracy and data volume in medical research and diagnostics.
According to the company, the new SBX technology enables the sequencing of up to 100 million DNA bases per second and can therefore make a decisive contribution to implementing personalized diagnostics faster and in a more targeted manner.
With the new production facility in Penzberg, Roche intends to make this technology available on a larger scale in the future. The first reagents from the new laboratory should be available from the second half of 2026.
Construction according to modern standards
The new two-storey building in modular steel construction comprises 833 square meters of laboratory space on the first floor and 630 square meters of technical space on the upper floor. Completion is scheduled for summer 2026. Roche is relying on sustainable materials, energy-efficient insulation and the installation of a photovoltaic system for the construction.
Regional importance highlighted
Representatives from local politics were also present at the laying of the foundation stone. Andrea Jochner-Weiß, District Administrator of the Weilheim-Schongau district, explained: “With this investment, Roche is not only strengthening the Penzberg site, but also the entire region in its role as a center for cutting-edge medical research.”