Roche announces plans to redevelop Basel facilities

Roche has announced that it will be investing heavily in modern research infrastructure, attractive workplaces and sustainable site development at its Basel facilities over the coming decade.

The company has pledged to spend three billion Swiss francs (1.97 billion pounds) on the construction of a new research and development centre for around 1,900 employees, while also creating a cutting-edge office building for up to 1,700 staff members.

Meanwhile, a total of around 700 million Swiss francs are being invested in upgrading existing buildings and infrastructure, with an office building and architectural showpiece designed by Otto Salvisberg in 1937 set to be completely renovated to bring it in line with modern standards.

Roche's operation in Basel serves as its corporate headquarters and as one of the firm's most important sites worldwide.

Severin Schwan, chief executive officer of Roche, said: "Employees from all parts of the company are making a vital contribution to Roche's innovative strength, and we want to provide them with an attractive work environment."

For the first nine months of 2014, the company has achieved five percent year-on-year growth, with a low to mid-single digit increase in group sales expected for the year as a whole.