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50 Facts About GSK Plc

Electra Bucher

Written by Electra Bucher

Published: 11 Dec 2024

Expert Verified Editorial Guidelines
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Source: Pharmaceutical-technology.com

What makes GSK plc a leader in the pharmaceutical industry? GSK plc, a British multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology giant, has a rich history dating back to 1715. Formed through the merger of Glaxo Wellcome and SmithKline Beecham in 2000, GSK operates in over 75 countries and employs around 70,000 people globally. With a strong focus on research and development, GSK invested £6.2 billion in R&D in 2023 alone. The company has three strategic R&D hubs in the US, UK, and Belgium. GSK's commitment to innovation and global health is evident in its 71 assets targeting WHO priority diseases and its top ranking in the Access to Medicine Index.

Key Takeaways:

  • GSK plc, a pharmaceutical giant with roots dating back to 1715, has a global presence in over 75 countries, employing around 70,000 people and investing £6.2 billion in research and development in 2023.
  • GSK's achievements include ranking first in the Access to Medicine Index, reducing operational carbon emissions by 10%, and having 71 assets in its global health pipeline to address priority WHO diseases.
Table of Contents
01The Origins and Evolution of GSK
02Achievements and Innovations
03Historical Milestones
04Business Segments and Consumer Healthcare
05Financial Performance
06Research and Development
07Acquisitions and Partnerships
08Recent Developments
09GSK's Impact and Future

The Origins and Evolution of GSK

GSK plc, a giant in the pharmaceutical world, has a history that stretches back centuries. Let's dive into the fascinating journey of this company.

  1. Founding: GSK's roots go back to 1715 with the opening of the Plough Court pharmacy in London.
  2. Legacy Companies: The company’s rich history includes legacy companies like Burroughs Wellcome, Glaxo, Allen & Hanburys, SmithKline & French, and Beecham.
  3. Merger: In 2000, Glaxo Wellcome and SmithKline Beecham merged, creating GlaxoSmithKline plc.
  4. Headquarters: GSK's main office is in London, UK.
  5. Global Presence: The company operates in over 75 countries worldwide.
  6. Employees: As of 2023, GSK employs around 70,000 people globally.
  7. Manufacturing Sites: GSK has 37 manufacturing sites around the world.
  8. R&D Investment: In 2023, GSK invested £6.2 billion in research and development.
  9. Strategic R&D Hubs: The company has three strategic global R&D hubs located in the US, UK, and Belgium.
  10. Business Development Deals: In 2023, GSK was involved in six major business development deals.

Achievements and Innovations

GSK has made significant strides in medicine and vaccine development, contributing to global health.

  1. Medicine and Vaccine Sales: In 2023, GSK generated £30.3 billion in vaccine and medicine sales.
  2. Sales Growth: The company saw a 14% sales growth in 2023.
  3. Product Launches: Over the past five years, GSK has launched products worth £10 billion, including lifecycle innovation.
  4. Access to Medicine Index: GSK ranked first in the Access to Medicine Index, which measures pharmaceutical companies' contributions to global health.
  5. Corporate Sustainability Assessment: The company ranked first in its industry for the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment.
  6. Carbon Emissions Reduction: GSK has reduced its operational carbon emissions by 10%.
  7. Global Health Pipeline: The company has 71 assets in its pipeline to address priority WHO diseases.
  8. Phase I Programs: In 2023, GSK started 8 Phase I programs.
  9. Phase III/Registration Assets: The company had 18 assets in Phase III/registration in 2023.
  10. Approved Vaccines and Medicines: In 2023, GSK approved 4 major vaccines and medicines.

Historical Milestones

GSK's journey is marked by several key milestones that have shaped its path.

  1. 1715: Plough Court Pharmacy was established in London, marking the beginning of GSK’s history.
  2. 1969: Glaxo Laboratories Ltd. acquired Allen & Hanburys Ltd., leading to the introduction of the first asthma medicine.
  3. 1972: The first steroid-based preventer drug was introduced by Glaxo.
  4. 1997: The first inhaler to contain both relievers and preventers was launched by GSK.
  5. 2013: A dry powder inhaler device was developed by over 200 scientists and engineers at GSK.
  6. 1989: SmithKline Beckman Corp. merged with Beecham Group plc to form SmithKline Beecham plc.
  7. 1995: The Wellcome Trust sold its remaining shares to Glaxo plc, forming Glaxo Wellcome plc.
  8. 2000: Glaxo Wellcome plc merged with SmithKline Beecham plc to form GlaxoSmithKline plc.

Business Segments and Consumer Healthcare

GSK's business is diverse, covering various segments including consumer healthcare.

  1. Consumer Healthcare: GSK’s consumer healthcare division sells oral healthcare products like Aquafresh, Macleans, and Sensodyne toothpastes.
  2. Brands Sold: In 2013, GSK sold the Lucozade and Ribena brands to Suntory for £1.35 billion.
  3. Product Portfolio: The consumer healthcare division also includes products like Abreva for cold sores, Night Nurse for cold remedies, Breathe Right nasal strips, and Nicoderm and Nicorette nicotine replacements.

Financial Performance

GSK's financial performance has been robust, reflecting its strong market presence.

  1. Revenue 2023: GSK generated £30.3 billion in revenues in 2023.
  2. Market Capitalization: As of February 2024, GSK had a market capitalization of £69 billion, ranking it as the eighth largest on the London Stock Exchange.
  3. Ranking: In 2023, GSK was ranked fifth among European pharmaceutical companies by Rx sales and second among UK pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies by market value.
  4. Profit 2006-2023: The company’s profit from 2006 to 2023 was significant, with a steady increase over the years.

Research and Development

Innovation is at the heart of GSK, with substantial investments in research and development.

  1. R&D Expenditure: GSK’s expenditure on research and development from 2006 to 2023 was substantial, focusing on innovative therapies.
  2. R&D Pipeline: The company has a large R&D pipeline, ranking among the leading 15 pharmaceutical companies worldwide by size of R&D pipeline as of 2024.
  3. Originated Drugs: GSK is among the top companies worldwide by number of originated drugs as of 2024.
  4. COVID-19 Treatments: In June 2022, GSK was among the leading companies by number of COVID-19 drugs and vaccines in development.

Acquisitions and Partnerships

Strategic acquisitions and partnerships have played a crucial role in GSK's growth.

  1. Prestige Brands Holdings: In 2011, Prestige Brands Holdings acquired 17 GSK brands with sales of US$210 million, including BC Powder, Beano, Ecotrin, Fiber Choice, Goody's Powder, Sominex, and Tagamet.
  2. CellZome Acquisition: In 2012, GSK acquired CellZome, a German biotech company, for US$98 million.
  3. Alitretinoin Rights: The same year, GSK acquired worldwide rights to alitretinoin (Toctino), an eczema drug, for US$302 million.
  4. Human Genome Sciences: In 2013, GSK acquired Human Genome Sciences (HGS) for US$3 billion, collaborating on drugs like Belimumab (Benlysta), albiglutide for type 2 diabetes, and darapladib for atherosclerosis.
  5. GlycoVaxyn Acquisition: In February 2015, GSK announced the acquisition of GlycoVaxyn, a Swiss pharmaceutical company, for US$190 million.
  6. ViiV Healthcare Partnership: In 2009, GSK formed a unique partnership with Pfizer to launch ViiV Healthcare, focusing on delivering advanced treatment and care for HIV communities.

Recent Developments

GSK continues to evolve, with recent developments shaping its future.

  1. Emma Walmsley as CEO: In March 2017, Emma Walmsley became the first female CEO of GSK.
  2. Philip Hampton as Chairman: In September 2015, Philip Hampton, then chair of the Royal Bank of Scotland, became the chairman of GSK.
  3. Saudi Arabian Unit Stake Increase: In December 2017, GSK increased its stake in its Saudi Arabian unit to 75%, taking over control from its Saudi partner Banaja KSA Holding Company.
  4. Haleon Separation: In 2022, GSK separated its consumer healthcare business to establish Haleon plc as an independent listed company, marking a new chapter for GSK as a focused biopharma company.
  5. Global Positioning: As of 2024, GSK is ranked among the top pharmaceutical companies globally, with a strong focus on innovation in vaccines and medicines, as well as commitment to sustainability and access to medicine.

GSK's Impact and Future

GSK plc stands tall in the pharmaceutical world. With roots dating back to 1715, it has grown into a global powerhouse. The company operates in over 75 countries, employs around 70,000 people, and has 37 manufacturing sites. GSK's commitment to research and development is evident with a £6.2 billion investment in 2023 alone. The company has a robust pipeline with 71 assets targeting WHO priority diseases. Recent achievements include launching products worth £10 billion and ranking first in the Access to Medicine Index. GSK's focus on sustainability, reducing carbon emissions by 10%, and its strategic partnerships, like ViiV Healthcare, highlight its dedication to global health. With a strong financial performance and innovative R&D, GSK continues to shape the future of medicine and vaccines, making a significant impact on global health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is GSK Plc?
GSK Plc, short for GlaxoSmithKline, operates as a global healthcare company. They're in the business of creating medicines, vaccines, and consumer healthcare products aimed at making a vast number of people around the world feel better and live longer.
How long has GSK been around?
This powerhouse in healthcare has roots stretching back to 1715. However, the modern form of GSK, as we know it today, came into being in 2000 through the merger of Glaxo Wellcome and SmithKline Beecham.
What are some well-known products from GSK?
GSK has a wide range of popular products. Among them, you'll find Sensodyne for sensitive teeth, Panadol for pain relief, and Nicorette for those looking to quit smoking. On the pharmaceutical side, they've made strides with medications like Advair for asthma and COPD, and Shingrix, a highly effective shingles vaccine.
Does GSK operate globally?
Absolutely! GSK's operations span across more than 150 countries. Their global presence allows them to deliver their products to a vast audience, ensuring healthcare solutions are accessible to many around the world.
What's GSK's approach to sustainability?
GSK takes sustainability seriously, focusing on reducing its environmental impact. They've committed to becoming carbon neutral and reducing waste across their operations. Their efforts extend to ensuring ethical sourcing and promoting access to healthcare in underprivileged areas.
How does GSK contribute to medical research?
GSK is at the forefront of medical research, investing billions annually in R&D. Their focus is on developing innovative treatments for a range of diseases, including cancer, HIV/AIDS, and respiratory conditions. Collaboration with various organizations and universities globally enhances their research capabilities.
Can individuals invest in GSK?
Yes, individuals can invest in GSK. As a publicly traded company listed on the London Stock Exchange and with ADRs on the New York Stock Exchange, anyone interested can buy shares and potentially benefit from the company's growth and success in the healthcare sector.

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