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Johnson & Johnson to Invest More than $1 Billion in Florida Vision Manufacturing Expansion
PAPER INDUSTRY NEWS
Jino John
7/10/20261 min read


Johnson & Johnson announced an investment of more than $1 billion to expand its vision manufacturing, packaging and distribution operations in Jacksonville, Florida, as part of its broader effort to strengthen U.S.-based production capacity.
The investment includes the construction of a new distribution facility and the deployment of advanced manufacturing and packaging technologies to increase production of the company's ACUVUE® contact lenses. According to the company, the expansion is intended to meet growing demand for its vision care products while reinforcing the resilience of its U.S. supply chain.
Construction of the new facility is already underway, with operations expected to begin in 2028.
The project forms part of Johnson & Johnson's previously announced $55 billion investment in U.S. manufacturing, research and development, and technology through early 2029.
Johnson & Johnson said the expansion builds on its long-standing presence in Jacksonville, where it has operated since 1981. The company currently manufactures more than 1.7 billion ACUVUE® contact lenses annually for the U.S. market and maintains more than 1.5 million square feet of manufacturing, research, distribution and operational facilities in the region.
The company said the investment supports the continued growth of its Jacksonville operations, where approximately 3,500 employees are based. Johnson & Johnson also stated that its operations contribute about $6 billion annually to Florida's economy.
In a statement, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Joaquin Duato said the investment reflects the company's commitment to expanding advanced manufacturing capabilities in the United States while strengthening production, packaging and distribution operations for its vision business.
Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan said the expansion reinforces the city's position in advanced manufacturing and life sciences while supporting long-term employment and economic development. Statements supporting the investment were also issued by U.S. Senators Rick Scott and Ashley Moody, along with Representatives John Rutherford and Aaron Bean, who cited its potential to strengthen domestic healthcare manufacturing capacity and regional economic growth.
