PHOENIX—The FDA has approved Paragon Vision Science’s newly constructed contact lens manufacturing site in suburban Phoenix, “paving the way for the company’s ongoing domestic and global expansion,” according to a CooperVision announcement Thursday. Paragon is part of CooperVision Specialty EyeCare. The facility in Gilbert, Ariz., will produce advanced ortho-k products, including Paragon CRT for use in the U.S. The new site is more than double the size of the company’s current plant in nearby Mesa, Ariz., according to the announcement. The Mesa location will continue to fabricate lenses for global markets after U.S. production is transferred to Gilbert over the next several months.

“Our investment of time and funds into the Gilbert manufacturing facility is central to Paragon’s ability to meet unprecedented demand for our pioneering ortho-k design,” Paragon president Rich Jeffries said in the announcement. “This new facility will also help us maintain our exceptional product quality and satisfaction ratings, which are driving our growth worldwide.”

A recent survey found that 97 percent of Paragon CRT patients report their experience either meets or exceeds their expectations, according to the announcement. Paragon’s net promoter score places it in the same tier as many of the world’s most admired and respected brands.

The Gilbert facility has been outfitted with new manufacturing and packaging lines, and the company expects to add a fourth production shift as well as expanding its quality team. The enlarged footprint and employee base will enable near-term double-digit capacity growth, with the ability for future increases, according to the announcement.

In addition, in keeping with CooperVision’s commitment to sustainable practices, the site incorporates an environmentally responsible cooling system, as well as other features such as energy-conserving LED lighting and a drinking water filtration system that will encourage refillable water bottle use.

As VMAIL reported earlier this year, Paragon has created dedicated practice management and account management teams in Northern California, Southern California, New York/New Jersey, Houston/Dallas and Phoenix. The teams support eyecare professionals to more fully integrate Paragon CRT and other contact lenses into their practices, including customized clinical educational experiences for individual practitioners and staff with a focus on hands-on collaboration.