Merck Life Science Arklow Closure: What You Need to Know
Merck to Close Arklow, Ireland Facility by End of 2028, Impacting 100 Jobs
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Published October 22, 2024
Strategic Portfolio Review Leads to Closure
German science and technology company Merck announced on October 22, 2024, its plan to close its Arklow, County Wicklow, Ireland facility by the end of 2028. This decision will result in the loss of approximately 100 jobs. The facility, acquired by Merck in 2015, specializes in the manufacture of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) – essential components used in pharmaceutical products.
Merck stated the closure follows a “strategic portfolio review” of products manufactured at the Arklow site, leading to the discontinuation of its API portfolio. The company emphasized that this decision was not made lightly and was based on “careful consideration of various factors including market dynamics and customer needs.”
Impact and Consultation Process
All 100 employees at the Vale Road facility will be affected by the planned closure. Merck has initiated a consultation process with the workforce and the services, Industrial, Professional and Technical Union (SIPTU) to discuss the implications and potential support for impacted employees. The consultation began immediately following the declaration to staff on October 22, 2024.
Merck’s Irish Operations Remain
Despite the Arklow closure,Merck maintains a important presence in Ireland. The company continues to operate facilities in Carrigtwohill, County Cork, and citywest, County Dublin. It’s significant to note that Merck Life Science, the entity operating the Arklow facility, is a distinct institution from the US-based pharmaceutical company Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD), which also has operations within Ireland.