The expansion of the Merck site in Darmstadt into a contemporary global headquarters announced at the end of 2013 is  taking shape. The construction projects are based on a long-term framework plan, which Merck, a leading company for top-quality high-tech products in the pharmaceutical and chemical sectors, is using to develop the Darmstadt site further in the coming years.

The initiative is part of the Group-wide strategic “Fit for 2018” transformation and growth program, which aims to make Merck more efficient and innovative.

The effort will culminate in the construction of the final Innovation Center, a new Visitor Center and an employee restaurant as well as a newly designed square extending across Frankfurter Strasse, which is to connect both parts of the site.

“This is a clear sign of our commitment to our home base, which we are modernizing to meet current and future needs in global competition. It will enable us to create attractive jobs for present and future employees,” said Kai Beckmann, Merck Executive Board member with responsibility for the Darmstadt site. Altogether, Merck is investing around €25 million to build the modular Innovation Center and the parking garage.

“The construction measures are part of the €250 million investment earmarked for the Darmstadt site in 2013 and 2014. Added to this are other major projects, e.g. the recently commissioned energy station as well as a further co-generation plant currently under construction. All are crucial to maintaining our long-term competitiveness, and to securing the future of the Darmstadt site and the people who work there,” explained Michael Fletterich, chairman of the Merck Works Council in Darmstadt.

The building, which is designed to promote interdisciplinary and project-related collaboration on innovations, will be completed in spring 2015.