Hundreds of jobs to be cut at healthcare firm by 2020
Healthcare firm Novartis has today announced that it plans to exit its Grimsby manufacturing site by the end of 2020, putting around 400 jobs at threat.
The announcement has been made as part of a global transformation of the company’s manufacturing network, including changes announced today to Novartis manufacturing sites in Switzerland, and previously announced adjustments in Japan, the US and other countries.
The firm said in a continuation of the manufacturing strategy initiated in 2016, Novartis planned to adapt its manufacturing network further in response to its changing product portfolio; with fewer high volume products, which the Grimsby site has focused on producing, and an increased emphasis on specialised and personalised innovative medicines.
Haseeb Ahmad, Novartis UK Country President, said: “Novartis has been a part of the Grimsby community for many years so this has been a very difficult decision. The Grimsby site is an effective, well-running operation that is testament to the hard-working and dedicated employees. We will treat every employee with the utmost respect, sensitivity and fairness during this difficult time.
“This decision has been made alongside broader changes to our business globally, and as a result of the changes in our product portfolio which now focuses on more specialised medicines, reflective of today’s changing healthcare needs. Novartis remains committed to the UK and believes that the UK is a world-leader in life sciences. Today’s announcement is part of a global review of our manufacturing operations and is not linked to the decision of the UK to leave the European Union.”
The firm added: “The proposed exit will be phased until the end of 2020. During this time options including divestment, which could potentially allow the facility to stay open, will be carefully considered by Novartis.
“Novartis will work closely with the elected staff consultative body to support associates over the period, and will offer enhanced severance packages and outplacement services should closure be implemented.”
