Pharmaceutical businesses in Marburg slash workforce numbers
In the heart of Germany, the city of Marburg is bracing for significant changes in its pharmaceutical sector. The city, renowned for its unique research and pharmacy know-how, is facing potential job losses totaling up to 1,000, with BioNTech alone planning to reduce between 250 and 350 full-time positions by 2027 [1].
This news has sparked a wave of local protests, with demonstrations attracting around 4,000 people who are opposed to these cuts [2]. The chemical union IG BCE has expressed grave concerns, warning that these layoffs could endanger the future competitiveness and long-term sustainability of Marburg's pharmaceutical industry [2].
The union fears that large-scale job reductions could damage the regional pharmaceutical ecosystem, which has historically been a stronghold for the sector. They are seeking help from politics to support the pharmaceutical location in Marburg, aiming to demonstrate to companies that they can remain in the location of Marburg [1].
The job cuts are not limited to BioNTech. CSL Behring and Pharma Serv have also announced plans to cut jobs and move their innovation hubs, putting further pressure on Marburg's pharmaceutical industry [1]. The Mayor of Marburg, Thomas Spies, has described these job cuts as a significant setback for the city and the entire region [2].
The union's protests, scheduled for July 30 under the slogan "Us first, then you!", aim to show support for the preservation of the pharmaceutical industry in Marburg [1]. They are determined to prevent potential job cuts and protect the unique research and pharmacy know-how that Marburg's pharmaceutical industry is known for.
Sources:
[1] "Marburg protests planned against job cuts and potential move of innovation hub." (2022). [Link]
[2] "Marburg's pharmaceutical sector faces significant job cuts." (2022). [Link]
The chemical union IG BCE is apprehensive that these job losses could negatively impact the future competitiveness and long-term sustainability of Marburg's entire business sector, not just the pharmaceutical industry.
Politics is being urged to help support Marburg's business sector, specifically the pharmaceutical industry, in an effort to keep companies within the location and preserve the city's industry-defining research and finance expertise.
