Freudenberg Medical, a global leader in contract design and manufacturing for the medical device and biopharma industry, has unveiled plans to bolster its global presence with a $25 million investment in a second manufacturing site in Costa Rica. This strategic expansion aims to enhance the company’s capabilities in delivering complex products to its international customer base, reinforcing its position as a pioneering CDMO partner with a strong foothold in major industry hubs across the Americas, Europe, and Asia.

Dr. Mark Ostwald, CEO of Freudenberg Medical, emphasized the company’s longstanding commitment to Costa Rica during the groundbreaking ceremony of the new facility. Having established its first production site in the country over 12 years ago, Freudenberg Medical continues to prioritize close proximity to its customers and efficiency across the device lifecycle. The new facility, set to become operational in early 2025, signifies a substantial step forward in the company’s strategy to offer large-scale, cost-effective manufacturing solutions.

The state-of-the-art facility is poised to specialize in the assembly of high-volume, minimally invasive catheters and other precision-required medical devices. Spanning 50,000 square feet initially, it will house three ISO 7 cleanrooms, with plans to double its size within three years, significantly expanding the company’s operational footprint in Costa Rica.

Positioned near Freudenberg Medical’s existing 30,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in the Coyol Free Zone, the new site will enable a strategic separation of operations. While the existing site will focus on primary processing technologies like molding and extrusion, assembly operations will transition to the new facility, optimizing the company’s production capabilities in Costa Rica.

Highlighting the significance of this investment, Róger Gómez, VP/General Manager of Freudenberg Medical in Costa Rica, outlined the company’s ambitious plans to triple its local workforce, reinforcing its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and providing equal opportunities for all. Furthermore, the facility’s design will be fully accessible, accommodating individuals with impairments.

In alignment with Freudenberg Group’s sustainability goals, the new facility will adhere to the highest environmental and energy efficiency standards. A dedicated PV solar power plant will supply the energy required for operations, marking a significant step towards the company’s aim to achieve climate neutrality by 2045.

Freudenberg Medical’s expansion in Costa Rica is a testament to its innovative approach and dedication to the medical device industry. With 11 manufacturing operations worldwide, the company continues to lead in the design, development, and manufacture of critical medical devices and components, contributing to the advancement of healthcare and pharmaceutical applications globally.

  Costa Rica, Dr. Mark Ostwald, Freudenberg Medical, Medical device industry, Róger Gómez