(Merck Animal Health) The biopharmaceutical company will expand its facility to 200,000 square feet and make an $860 million investment in the site’s existing manufacturing facility.

Merck said on Monday would buy Elanco Animal Health's aqua business for $1.3 billion in cash, strengthening its portfolio of aquatic pet and livestock health products.

“Merck has been a valued part of the De Soto community for over 20 years, and this $895 million expansion is a remarkable vote of confidence in our city’s future” said De Soto Mayor Rick Walker.

Animal Health sales grew to 5% in the first quarter of 2025, reaching close to $1.6 billion. Worldwide sales were $15.5 billion, a 2% drop from the same period last year.

Merck Animal Health, along with local, regional and state officials announced Thursday the company will invest $895 million to expand its plant in De Soto.

Merck invests $895M to expand its De Soto facility, adding 2,500 construction jobs and 200 full-time roles in the growing Kansas animal health corridor.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Merck Animal Health announced Thursday plans to expand its operations in Johnson County, creating hundreds of new jobs. The biopharmaceutical company will invest $895 million ...

Merck Animal Health closed its planned acquisition of Elanco Animal Health Inc.’s aqua business, the division of Rahway-based Merck & Co. Inc. announced July 9. In a separate statement ...

Merck Animal Health announced Monday an agreement to acquire the aqua business of Elanco Animal Health Inc. for $1.3 billion in cash, a move that will bolster the Rahway-based company’s position ...