Medical manufacturing company STERIS is moving forward with plans for a $600 million manufacturing and distribution campus in Sanford, bringing a major investment and hundreds of expected jobs to Lee County.
According to planning documents reported by the Triangle Business Journal on October 15, the company is proposing two industrial buildings totaling more than 600,000 square feet across 76.4 acres at Helix Innovation Park. The project is expected to create 335 jobs, with average annual wages of approximately $68,704.
A Major Investment in Advanced Manufacturing
The new campus will serve as STERIS's Chemistries Manufacturing Center of Excellence, producing and distributing specialized chemicals used in infection prevention and contamination control for healthcare and pharmaceutical customers. Planned operations include manufacturing, research and development, laboratories, warehousing, and distribution.
The project still requires technical review and additional development steps, including final plat recording and building permits. STERIS has not confirmed a specific construction timeline, although the company previously said the facility could become operational in two to three years, with distribution expected to begin first.
What It Means for Sanford
The investment could strengthen Sanford's position as a destination for advanced manufacturing and life-sciences businesses. The new jobs may also support demand for housing, restaurants, retail, and other local services as the area attracts additional workers.
For the real estate market, the project highlights how major employers can influence development beyond their own properties. As industrial investment grows, communities may face increased demand for housing and infrastructure to support new employment.
Discussion
Thoughts from readers and local market watchers.