BASEL
Novartis plans to eliminate approximately 130 jobs in Switzerland as it relocates laboratory operations and halts biologics production at its Kleinbasel site, the drugmaker announced Wednesday.
The company will transfer laboratories responsible for biological cell banks, analytical testing and technical development from Kleinbasel to its main Basel campus by the end of 2028. Small-scale biologics production at the Kleinbasel site will cease by the end of 2027.
These operations will shift to other existing biologics drug substance sites within Novartis's European manufacturing network, the company said. The relocation aligns with the expiration of lease agreements for the Kleinbasel site in 2029, continuing a plan Novartis first announced in 2022.
The Kleinbasel site currently employs around 200 people. Novartis said it is committed to supporting affected employees through job centers, early retirement options and a social plan extending through the end of 2028. The reductions are subject to consultation with staff.
The Kleinbasel changes occur as Novartis significantly expands operations in the United States. The company said it plans to spend $23 billion over the next five years to build and enlarge 10 facilities across the U.S.
