Restructuring events
European Restructuring Monitor (ERM)
The restructuring events database contains factsheets with data on large-scale restructuring events reported in the principal national media and company websites in each EU Member State. This database was created in 2002.
Biontech, a German biotechnology company, announced the closure of its domestic production sites and the transfer of COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing to its U.S. partner Pfizer. The company plans to cut up to 1,860 positions, mainly in Germany, at its facilities in Idar-Oberstein, Marburg, and Tübingen. The restructuring is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
The decision follows a rapid decline in demand for COVID-19 vaccines, leading the company to focus its resources on oncology research. The closures represent a strategic shift away from vaccine production, with Pfizer now taking full responsibility for manufacturing in Europe and the United States. The move is driven by the need to reduce costs and reallocate capital toward cancer drug development, reflecting the company’s long-term innovation strategy.
Works councils and trade unions have criticised the decision and stated that they were not involved.
The company currently employs around 8,400 people.
The company already reported global job cuts in 2025 Biontech 2025 - WO, including job losses in Germany Biontech 2025 - DE.
Eurofound (2026), BioNtech, Closure in Germany, factsheet number 300335, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://apps.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/300335.
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