Pfizer, a prominent player in the medtech industry, has officially disclosed its plans to reduce its workforce by 100 positions at the manufacturing centre in Newbridge, County Kildare. This strategic move is part of the company’s broader initiative, termed as an ‘enterprise-wide cost realignment programme,’ unveiled last month.
The Newbridge facility, which played a pivotal role in producing Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccines, has experienced decreased demand following the pandemic’s abatement. A company spokesperson stated, ‘We can confirm planned changes at the Newbridge site, impacting approximately 100 colleagues involved in the manufacture of Pfizer’s Covid antiviral treatment.’ Pfizer assures that it will engage with affected employees and their representatives during the implementation of these changes.
Pfizer attributes the job cuts to lower-than-anticipated demand for its COVID-19 products. The company expanded on-site operations in 2021 to meet pandemic-related requirements. However, with the subdued utilisation of COVID-19 products, production is now aligning with customer demand.
Despite the reduction in Newbridge, one of Pfizer’s key drug product sites with around 1,200 employees, the company remains committed to its expansion plans. It will proceed with previously announced investments in its Ringaskiddy, County Cork, and Grange Castle, County Dublin sites. Last December, Pfizer revealed a €1.2 billion investment in the Grange Castle facility, with plans to increase the headcount by up to 500. The company affirms its dedication to this growth trajectory.
Pfizer emphasises that the job cuts at Newbridge will not impede its overall manufacturing operations’ expansion through 2024. Furthermore, it anticipates an additional 230 roles at its Grange Castle and Ringaskiddy sites, reinforcing its commitment to sustained growth.
In 2021, the Grange Castle site received a €40 million investment from Pfizer, resulting in the creation of 75 new jobs as the company geared up to commence COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing at the location.
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