Takeda Pharmaceuticals to Close German Headquarters, Affecting Employees
The Japanese pharmaceutical giant Takeda has announced plans to close its current headquarters in Konstanz, Germany, as part of a strategic realignment aimed at strengthening its presence in Berlin. This decision comes amid ongoing challenges faced by the pharmaceutical industry, which, like other sectors, is grappling with economic pressures.
According to the company's statement, the relocation of Takeda GmbH's headquarters to Berlin will be completed by the end of 2028. The firm aims to focus its operations in Germany on the Berlin site, as well as existing locations in Oranienburg, Brandenburg, and Singen, Baden-Württemberg. The closure in Konstanz will impact approximately 60 employees currently based there.
Takeda employs around 2,300 people across Germany, and the decision to shift the headquarters was characterized by the company as a commitment to the German market, which ranks as the fourth-largest for Takeda globally. The transition reflects a broader trend within the company, as it has been managing operational adjustments, including layoffs at its Swiss headquarters in Opfikon last year.
Michael Hartmann, the Human Resources Manager for Takeda Germany, acknowledged the significant change this decision represents for the employees in Konstanz. He emphasized the company's intention to communicate transparently with staff and is currently in discussions with the works council regarding the implications of the move.
Historically, the Konstanz site has served as a hub for administrative and service functions for the DACH region. The company has been operating its German market activities from Berlin since 2012 through Takeda Pharma Vertrieb GmbH & Co. KG.
This development follows a broader trend in which companies are reassessing their operational strategies in response to market conditions, with other organizations also announcing relocations or consolidations in recent months. The pharmaceutical sector's adaptation reflects its ongoing evolution in a competitive landscape.