Eppendorf commits about RM190 million to Penang manufacturing plant
The German life sciences company expects production to begin gradually in 2028, with staffing reaching about 130 people by end-2029.
Penang will host Eppendorf SE's first Southeast Asian manufacturing operation under an investment of about RM190 million. Located at Bandar Cassia Technology Park, the factory will produce selected items in the German company's Centrifuges & Instruments range for laboratory and scientific users worldwide.
The construction target is end-2027, after which production equipment will be installed. Manufacturing is expected to get under way gradually in 2028, with output increasing in phases through 2030. The facility is expected to have about 130 employees by end-2029.
A lease signed in July 2026 with Penang Development Corporation preceded the project. The site measures around 522,049 sq ft, while planned built-up space totals about 172,222 sq ft. It will accommodate manufacturing and storage, as well as offices, logistics and quality-related activities.
Group chief executive officer Dr Christine Munz said the investment was aimed at strengthening innovation capabilities and making production capacity more resilient. Eppendorf has not undertaken a greenfield manufacturing project for more than 50 years. Munz said the new operation would give its centrifuges and instruments business greater flexibility and competitiveness.
Eppendorf plans to seek LEED Gold certification for the facility, which will incorporate solar panels, systems for retaining water, energy-efficient building technology and electric vehicle charging infrastructure. The company established an office in Kuala Lumpur in 1995; the Penang factory will add manufacturing to its commercial and administrative activities in Malaysia.
