A DRUGS firm is plotting new meningitis and HIV treatments to strengthen its major healthcare divisions.

GlaxoSmithKline says the work will help consolidate its position as a global leader.

The company, which employs about 1,000 people at a plant in Barnard Castle, County Durham, said meningitis prevention will allow it to expand into new markets and build its US presence.

That focus has been bolstered by the Bexsero and Menveo treatments, which it took from a deal to buy rival Novartis’ vaccines.

Bosses also said they have decided against the flotation of its ViiV Healthcare business, which centres on HIV treatment, highlighting positive product launches for the decision.

The company is looking to restore its reputation after being fined nearly £300m last year by Chinese regulators following allegations it paid bribes to doctors and hospitals in order to promote its products.

Sir Andrew Witty, chief executive, said: “With the Novartis products, we have the most comprehensive vaccines portfolio in the industry.

“Prevention of meningitis represents one of the most significant new opportunities with Bexsero and Menveo, and it will benefit the company in many markets, notably the ability to offer the ex-Novartis vaccines in emerging markets and expand in the US.

“Five years ago, we created ViiV Healthcare as a standalone global HIV business, which has become a highly successful venture with equity partners Pfizer and Shionogi.

“Recent launches have continued to surpass expectations, and there is clear scope to develop regimens for HIV treatment over the next few years.

“Having reviewed its very positive outlook, we have concluded retaining a full, existing holding in ViiV is in the best interests of the group.”

Sir Andrew made the announcement as the firm revealed first quarter sales of £5.6bn.

He also said the firm will work to maintain its presence as the world’s largest supplier of over-the-counter medicines, including Sensodyne toothpaste and Panadol pain relief tablets, adding he expects sales across its vaccines, consumer healthcare and pharmaceuticals divisions to all increase in the period to 2020.

He said: “Over the financial period from 2016 to 2020, we expect vaccines sales to grow at a rate of mid-to-high single digits, with consumer healthcare in mid-single digits.

“Pharmaceutical sales are expected to grow at a rate of low single digits.”

The company’s Barnard Castle factory makes antibiotics and liquid fillings for injections and nasal sprays, and previously produced about 130 million doses of the H1N1 vaccine to treat swine flu.

It is also the headquarters of its skin division and includes a £20m dermatology centre of excellence.