GlaxoSmithKline plant saved from closure

GlaxoSmithKline yesterday said it would invest €10 million in its plant in Sligo, saving it from closure and securing 120 jobs. The company told staff the Stiefel plant, which had been due to close next year, would move from producing pharmaceuticals to consumer and eventually skin healthcare products.

There would be some jobs lost over the next two years at the plant, which currently employs 180 people, with a “gradual” reduction to 120. However, GlaxoSmthKline estimated there would be an additional 50 jobs added in 2014 as the plant improved skills and capacity.

The investment is being supported through IDA Ireland, and will help upgrade the site’s technical capabilities.

The Sligo plant became part of the GlaxoSmithKline network when the group acquired privately-owned US skincare specialist Stiefel Laboratories for $3.6 billion in 2009. It has been operating there since 1975. GlaxoSmithKline currently employs 1,600 people across five locations in Ireland.