Novo Nordisk to Invest €432 Million in Ireland Tablet Expansion and Launch DKK15B Buyback
Novo Nordisk is committing €432 million to expand its Athlone, Ireland tablet facility for oral GLP-1 production, boosting capacity by 2028 and creating up to 500 construction roles. The company launched a DKK 15 billion share repurchase program, while legal disputes over compounded GLP-1 copies with Hims & Hers intensify under FDA scrutiny.
1. Ireland Manufacturing Expansion
Novo Nordisk announced a €432 million investment to expand its tablet manufacturing facility in Athlone, Ireland. The project will increase capacity for oral GLP-1 treatments, support markets outside the US, and is scheduled for completion by 2028, with up to 500 construction jobs created.
2. DKK 15 Billion Share Buyback
On February 4, 2026, Novo Nordisk launched a share repurchase programme under MAR Safe Harbour rules, authorising up to DKK 15 billion of buybacks over 12 months. This move aims to enhance shareholder value and optimise capital structure amid continued global expansion.
3. Dispute Over Compounded GLP-1 Drugs
The company is engaged in litigation against Hims & Hers over compounded versions of its semaglutide-based Wegovy and Ozempic drugs. Regulatory actions by the FDA and potential addition of semaglutide to a 'do-not-compound' list could protect Novo Nordisk’s market exclusivity while the dispute with Hims deepens.