Construction of 131-year-old Chattem’s biggest-ever building expansion is on track for an October finish, setting the stage for local production of the company’s Act mouthwash, officials said Monday.
Also, when Chattem ramps up the marketing of Allegra for parent Sanofi-Aventis, the distribution of the allergy blockbuster medicine is expected to take place from Chattanooga.
“Chattem is making an outstanding contribution to our local economy by continuing to create new jobs through the Act mouthwash expansion while also serving as a focus for new investment by Sanofi-Aventis,” said Tom Edd Wilson, the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce’s chief executive.
Greg Lewis, a Chattem engineer overseeing the expansion, said the new $35.5 million plant will mimic a pharmaceutical factory when it comes to cleanliness.
“It’s a step up from how we do our controls now,” he said.