Bernard Fraisse Group to acquire Novartis production site in Hettlingen (CH)
"After reviewing our long-term strategy, we concluded that the Hettlingen facility will better prosper within a group that plans to develop the site in a new direction to optimize its long-term potential," said Andreas Rummelt, Head of Global Technical Operations, Novartis Pharma AG. "The agreement with Bernard Fraisse Group best serves the interests of Novartis and the Hettlingen employees."
Novartis will contract with Bernard Fraisse Group to manufacture products at the Hettlingen site for at least two years after the transfer of ownership. Products manufactured at this site include gels, ointments and drops such as Voltaren®, Dispatim®, Viscotears®, Genteal® and Ultracortenol®.
Of the approximately 140 total staff at Hettlingen, about 25 job reductions are planned by Novartis before the hand-over. Employees affected will be offered outplacement services, severance packages or early retirement as appropriate.
Novartis has maintained strong relations with Bernard Fraisse Group since 2002 when the French company acquired a Novartis production site in Annonay, France. This transaction resulted in a substantial increase in production through orders from third parties and in the retention of most Novartis employees.
The Ophthalmics business unit reported a 25 percent increase in first-half 2004 sales, driven by the dynamic performance of the eye disease drug Visudyne®. Outsourcing the manufacturing of ophthalmic products will have no impact to the company's growth or strategic plan for Ophthalmics.
Most read news
Other news from the department business & finance
Get the life science industry in your inbox
From now on, don't miss a thing: Our newsletter for biotechnology, pharma and life sciences brings you up to date every Tuesday and Thursday. The latest industry news, product highlights and innovations - compact and easy to understand in your inbox. Researched by us so you don't have to.