Aesculap threatens to move logistics abroad over road purchase dispute

Aesculap, a major medical technology company and subsidiary of the Swiss B. Braun Group, has issued an ultimatum to the city of Tuttlingen regarding its expansion plans. The company seeks to purchase approximately 200 meters of Dornierstraße to expand its headquarters and maintain local logistics operations.

B. Braun board member Jens von Lackum stated that if the expansion is not approved, the company will be forced to relocate its entire logistics division abroad. This move would jeopardize approximately 250 jobs in Tuttlingen, where the company currently employs around 4,000 people. Von Lackum noted that once logistics are moved overseas, future manufacturing in Tuttlingen would likely cease.

The Tuttlingen city council is currently weighing the proposal. While the sale would require motorists to take a detour of about one kilometer, the council has agreed to enter negotiations. Mayor Michael Beck emphasized the importance of preserving local jobs, though the city is seeking concessions for public transport and cycling infrastructure as part of any potential agreement.