Théa and Unither Pharmaceuticals Announce an Industrial Partnership Around a New Ophthalmic Production Unit in Auvergne
Clermont-Ferrand / Gannat, July 23, 2026 – Théa, an independent family-owned pharmaceutical group specialized in the development and commercialization of ophthalmic treatments, and Unither Pharmaceuticals, a French pharmaceutical development and manufacturing company, announce the signing of a long-term strategic industrial partnership aimed at supporting Théa Group’s growth in Europe.
A Major Industrial Facility for Théa
Under this agreement, the new production unit, covering approximately 20,000 m² and located at the Gannat site (Allier), will be primarily dedicated to the manufacture of Théa’s sterile ophthalmic products. Designed and operated by Unither Pharmaceuticals, this facility will represent a key industrial asset ensuring the production of Théa Group products.
Rare in the pharmaceutical industry, where production facilities are generally shared among several clients, this model reflects the long-term mutual commitment made by both companies. Separate from the rest of the Gannat site, the unit has been designed to meet Théa’s long-term growth needs while leveraging Unither Pharmaceuticals’ recognized expertise in sterile technologies.
Driving European Growth
The future facility, already under construction, will include several production lines for preservative-free sterile multidose bottles and single-dose units. It will ultimately be capable of producing more than 50 million Théa treatments per year for the French and European markets.
The first pharmaceutical validation batches are expected from 2027. Industrial operations are scheduled to begin in 2028, with the first commercial launches in 2029.
An Exceptional Industrial Partnership
According to Jean-Frédéric Chibret, President of the Théa Group: “This agreement goes far beyond a traditional relationship between a pharmaceutical company and an industrial partner. Having a production facility dedicated to our products represents an exceptional commitment that reflects the trust we have built with Unither Pharmaceuticals and our shared long-term vision. This manufacturing capacity will enable us to sustainably support Théa’s growth in Europe while strengthening our industrial presence in France.”
Henrik Krueppe, CEO of Unither Pharmaceuticals, adds: “Designing and operating an industrial facility dedicated primarily to a single partner is an unusual approach in our industry. This project illustrates the trust that binds us to Théa and our shared commitment to building a lasting partnership that supports its future growth. Unither Pharmaceuticals is once again demonstrating its ability to forge innovative, long-term agreements to support the growth of its clients and partners both in France and internationally.”
Auvergne at the Heart of the Project
The project also represents a major opportunity for the region. Construction began in March 2025, and the facilities are expected to be completed by the end of 2026. More than 130 people are currently working on the construction site. The project is expected to create 133 direct jobs by 2028 and nearly 250 by 2030.
Beyond its industrial dimension, this project also illustrates the two companies’ long-term commitment to the Auvergne region. For Théa, a family-owned group founded and developed in Clermont-Ferrand, it marks a new stage in its growth at the heart of its home region. For Unither Pharmaceuticals, whose Gannat site serves as a major industrial hub, it demonstrates Auvergne’s capacity to host pharmaceutical projects of European scope that combine innovation, production, and job creation.
This project represents a total investment of more than €140 million and is supported by the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes Region as part of the “Pack Relocalisation – Supporting Industrial Investment” program.
Key Figures
• Location: Gannat (Allier)
• Construction: to begin in March 2025; facility completion by the end of 2026
• Pharmaceutical validation: first batches in 2027
• Industrial commissioning: 2028
• First product launches: 2029
• Production capacity: more than 50 million treatments per year
• Markets served: France and Europe
• Employment: 133 direct jobs by 2028, nearly 250 by 2030
About Théa
Théa is an independent, family-owned pharmaceutical group exclusively dedicated to ophthalmology. Founded more than 30 years ago and still headquartered in Clermont-Ferrand, the Group now operates in more than 75 countries and employs more than 2,400 people across 35 subsidiaries. With recognized expertise covering all major eye conditions, Théa develops innovative solutions for patients and healthcare professionals. www.thea.com
About Unither Pharmaceuticals
Unither Pharmaceuticals is a French contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) specializing in sterile and non-sterile liquid formulations. As the global leader in sterile single-dose Blow-Fill-Seal (BFS) technology, Unither supports its clients from formulation through industrial production. With a presence in Europe, North America, South America, and Asia, the company relies on an international network of manufacturing and development sites to support its partners’ strategies. www.unither-pharma.com
Press Contacts
Théa
Julie AHMED julie.ahmed@theapharma.com +33 (0)6 42 19 16 06
Unither Pharmaceuticals
Elisabeth ALIDOU elisabeth.alidou@unither-pharma.com +33 (0) 1 44 63 14 62