Bracco Invests $230 Million in Sanford Manufacturing Facility

Italian life sciences company Bracco Imaging plans to invest $230 million in Sanford, North Carolina, creating 200 jobs as it establishes its first U.S. manufacturing operation for injectable contrast media used in medical imaging.

Announced October 27, the project will expand Bracco's manufacturing capacity and strengthen its U.S. supply chain. The company plans to locate its operation in an existing building at Central Carolina Enterprise Park in Sanford, rather than construct an entirely new facility. Hiring is expected to begin in 2028, with the investment scheduled for completion by the end of 2030.

Supporting North Carolina's Life Sciences Industry

Bracco produces contrast agents used in procedures such as CT scans, MRIs, and X-rays. Establishing U.S. production will help the company serve American hospitals more efficiently while reducing reliance on overseas manufacturing.

The 200 positions will include manufacturing, engineering, technical operations, quality control, warehousing, and administrative roles. The jobs are expected to pay an average annual salary of approximately $103,164, above Lee County's reported average wage.

The project also includes public incentives. North Carolina approved a potential state grant of approximately $2.86 million over 12 years, while Sanford and Lee County are providing local incentives valued at approximately $7 million, subject to the applicable requirements. 

What It Means for Sanford

Bracco's investment adds to a growing concentration of advanced manufacturing and healthcare-related businesses in Sanford. The area has also attracted major commitments from companies such as STERIS and Caterpillar, reinforcing its position as an important manufacturing center.

For the local real estate market, the expansion could support demand for housing, retail, restaurants, and other services as new employment opportunities develop. However, the effect on housing demand will depend on hiring timelines and how many employees relocate to the area.

Bracco's $230 million investment is another significant economic development win for Sanford. With 200 jobs planned and hiring expected to begin in 2028, the project could strengthen the region's life sciences industry while supporting longer-term growth in employment and local real estate demand.