February 11, 2002 — Albany, NY — In an effort to keep up with demand for bulk pharmaceutical ingredients, Albany Molecular Research Inc. is investing more than $1 million into the construction of two new laboratories.

Last week, a company spokesperson confirmed that work to convert existing office and storage space has already begun. The space will be transformed into multipurpose manufacturing suites totaling some 700 and 580 square feet and will be built to meet U.S. Food and Drug Administration guidelines, according a report in Knight Ridder Business News.

&#34Over the past 12 to 18 months, we have been experiencing a significant increase in cGMP business,&#34 notes Donald E. Kuhla, president and chief operating officer. &#34Our existing cGMP suites are now booked into the summer, we have expanded to a seven-day work schedule, and we continue to see requests for proposals for additional business.&#34

Albany Molecular Research also has long-term plans to expand on two parcels adjacent to its headquarters. The company would not confirm if it plans to break ground in 2002 on the $40 million, 200,000-square-foot building, according to published reports.