ImmunoTek Plasma, the largest independent blood-plasma donation center operator in the country, has opened its newest location in Anniston.

Plasma is used to create medicines and plasma-based therapies that treat patients with a variety of diseases and disorders including shock and burn patients, bleeding disorders, transplant patients, those suffering from autoimmune diseases, and many others.

The United States provides 75 percent of the world's plasma, and demand increases by six to eight percent yearly.

"We are excited to add Anniston to the ImmunoTek family," said Blair McKinney, COO of ImmunoTek Bio Centers. "In addition to donor compensation, the new ImmunoTek donation center will create new jobs in Anniston and we anticipate making a $5 million economic impact yearly."