Johnson & Johnson has announced plans to expand its operations in North Carolina with a new drug product manufacturing facility in Wilson. Governor Josh Stein shared the news, stating that the company will make an additional multibillion dollar investment in the City of Wilson. The project is expected to create up to 500 new jobs and focus on producing medicines for oncology and neurological diseases.
“I appreciate Johnson & Johnson’s confidence that North Carolina is an ideal place to expand their business and create more good-paying jobs,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Life sciences leaders continue to select North Carolina because our skilled workforce and commitment to specialized training deliver the talent companies need to help patients in the United States and around the world.”
This marks the third time in just over a year that Johnson & Johnson has chosen North Carolina for expansion. In October 2024, the company announced its first project in Wilson—a $2 billion investment creating 420 jobs at a pharmaceutical manufacturing campus for biologics. Construction on that facility is ongoing, with hiring underway for advanced manufacturing roles. In August 2025, Johnson & Johnson secured a new site in Holly Springs dedicated to biopharmaceutical manufacturing, representing another $2 billion commitment over ten years and adding 120 jobs.
“We are pleased to make another significant manufacturing investment in North Carolina. This new facility is the third North Carolina project announced by Johnson & Johnson in the past year and will help to further accelerate the delivery of our portfolio of transformational medicines for patients,” said Jennifer Taubert, Executive Vice President, Worldwide Chairman, Innovative Medicine, Johnson & Johnson. “North Carolina is an important life sciences hub, and we look forward to increasing our presence in the state.”
N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley commented on workforce development: “North Carolina has one of the largest life sciences workforces in the nation. Economic and workforce development collaboration is critical to ensuring we have the foundation and business climate for innovators like Johnson &Johnson to succeed, and we remain laser-focused on maintaining and strengthening our leadership in the life sciences.”
The expansion will be supported by an anticipated legislative appropriation of $12 million aimed at expanding training facilities at Wilson Community College. A grant from North Carolina’s Industrial Development Fund – Utility Account is also expected.
“Once again, Johnson & Johnson—healthcare’s leading, most comprehensive, and innovative powerhouse—has recognized the value of doing business in North Carolina, and specifically in Wilson County,” said N.C. Senator Buck Newton. “North Carolina’s low tax environment and our investment in the Best Center at the Wilson Community College continues to attract new, high paying jobs to the region. This major investment in a new top-tier manufacturing operation underscores Johnson & Johnson’s confidence in Wilson and our state and is a big part of its commitment to invest $55 billion in new U.S. manufacturing, research and development, and advanced technology.”
N.C. Representative Dante Pittman added: “Johnson & Johnson’s continued investment in Wilson County is creating new pathways for our people to access high-value careers in the life sciences. This growth further underscores the need for workforce training initiatives, such as the BEST Center of Eastern North Carolina and BioWorks high school programs, to ensure our region is prepared to support and partner with this critical industry. We are honored that Johnson & Johnson has once again chosen Wilson County as a partner in its mission to build a healthier world.”
Several organizations partnered on this project including state agencies such as the Office of Governor Josh Stein, which serves as chief executive overseeing state operations since its establishment as North Carolina’s oldest public office dating back to 1776 (official website). Other partners include local government bodies like Wilson County officials along with economic development organizations.
