Sanofi-Aventis to close manufacturing plant

KANSAS CITY, Mo. A decline in demand in North American markets has prompted a drug maker to close a plant in the United States.

Sanofi-Aventis U.S. announced last week that it would close its Kansas City, Mo., manufacturing plant. The plant mostly makes pill-based medications.

“The site has an excellent performance record, and the Kansas City community has been extremely supportive through the years,” Sanofi head of manufacturing for solid pharmaceuticals Alain Peychaud said in a statement. “Ultimately, however, the decision was made based on a strong decline in demand.”

The closing of the plant will take place in phases and is expected to be complete by mid-2012.