Ego Pharmaceuticals has announced a $156 million, decade-long investment in its Australian manufacturing operations, signalling a step forward to compete with global skincare giants.
The investment includes the launch of the Zorzi Innovation Centre (ZInC), the Green Core sustainability project, a new cream filling line, and expanded warehouse capacity at its Braeside facility. The announcement was made at a launch event attended by minister for economic growth and jobs, Danny Pearson.
With demand for Australian-made, science-backed skincare on the rise, Ego’s flagship QV brand has become the top-selling skincare product in both pharmacy and grocery channels nationwide.
In 2024, QV achieved more than $133 million in retail sales, according to the company.
The expansion will create 90 jobs across Ego’s Braeside and Dandenong South sites, doubling the company’s annual production capacity, which reached over 33 million units in 2024. Ego has also reduced its carbon emissions by 32% since 2019.
Managing director Alan Oppenheim AM said the new facilities signal a vote of confidence in Australian innovation.
“While the majority of global skincare companies manufacture offshore, we’ve chosen a different path; one that backs Australian jobs, science and ingenuity,” he said.
“This investment is more than steel and machinery. It’s a long-term vote of confidence in what Australian expertise can deliver on a global stage.”
Victorian premier Jacinta Allan welcomed the development, which includes $35 million in support from the state government.
“Victoria’s health tech sector is thriving, and this redevelopment is a prime example,” she said. “We backed Ego Pharmaceuticals to grow because we know investments like this mean more local jobs, more exports, and a stronger economy.”
Tim Piper AM, Victorian head of the Australian Industry Group, said Ego’s investment was crucial in the current economic climate.
“Ego Pharmaceuticals’ investment in new local facilities is a win for the entire country,” he said. “It’s the kind of commitment to local industry we need more of.”
Founded in 1953, the family-owned company is the force behind popular dermatological brands including QV Skincare, Azclear Action, Moov Head Lice, Aqium Hand Sanitiser and DermAid.