Novartis to cut 130 Swiss jobs and relocate biologics labs

Novartis is planning to cut approximately 130 jobs in Switzerland as part of a strategic restructuring of its biologics technical development and production footprint in Basel.

The company will phase out small-volume biologics production at its Kleinbasel site by the end of 2027, following the expiration of facility leases. These manufacturing activities are expected to be transitioned to other existing biologics drug substance sites within the company’s European network.

Additionally, laboratories dedicated to technical development, analytical testing, and biological cell banks will be relocated from Kleinbasel to the main Novartis campus in Basel by the end of 2028. This move aims to establish a new biologics technical development centre on the main campus.

Novartis stated that the transition will include a social plan and support for affected employees, including measures such as early retirement and job centre assistance. Steffen Lang, President of Operations, noted that the changes are intended to strengthen the Basel campus as a key location for research, development, and innovation.