Baxter Announces Hemodialysis Dialyzer Expansion In Alabama Facility

(RTTNews) - Baxter International Inc (BAX) said Tuesday it plans to expand its manufacturing facility in Opelika, Alabama, to address the growing global demand for dialyzers, a critical component used in hemodialysis therapy.

Baxter will invest nearly $300 million in the Opelika site to add 230,000 square feet and several production lines. The company currently employs about 170 people at the facility, and anticipates it will begin the hiring process of the additional 200 workers in 2016 to support the expansion, which is when the first commercial production on the new lines is slated to begin.

Baxter develops products for people with hemophilia, immune disorders, cancer, infectious diseases, kidney disease, trauma and other chronic and acute medical conditions.