580 job openings in Kundl/Scendenau and the rise in energy prices in the coming year overshadow Novartis’ latest 75 million investment. However, the importance of the Tyrolean locations has increased, emphasizes Mario Riesner, director of the Novartis Campus Kundl/Schaftenau.
At the Novartis site in Schaftenau (Langkampfen), major investments are being made at a rapid pace. A facility for the technical development of biopharmaceuticals is being built for an amount of 75 million euros. “Since production and research are close together here, everyone understands the requirements of the other better,” explained Mario Riesner during the visit to the “Tiroler Krone”. Almost half of the newly approved drugs are biopharmaceuticals, they open new therapeutic approaches.
Better life for the chronically ill
From 2023, products such as auto-injectors will be manufactured in another pilot medical device plant, which will replace conventional syringes, for example in chronic diseases. This makes life easier as many doctor and hospital visits are no longer necessary. “The 75 million euros could also have been invested in the Novartis sites in Singapore or Slovenia. But our know-how and years of experience spoke in favor of Tyrol,” emphasizes Riesner.
With “sweets” against the labor shortage
However, the good news about the Kundl and Schaftenau locations is also mixed with concerns:
- Keyword staff: “We currently have 580 jobs advertised, 300 of which are in production,” Riesner said, referring to the widespread labor shortage. This is counteracted with a number of “sweets” – such as doubling the night shift allowance. With training modules it is also the intention that temporary workers can find their way “up”.
- Keyword energy: The director of the Unterland site calculates that energy costs (electricity plus gas) will be between 10 and 15 million euros in 2021. “In 2023 we have to take into account 100 to 150 million euros in Kundl and Schaftenau. At the same time, we are exposed to global competition,” emphasizes Riesner. The savings potential – for example through modified processes – is manageable and should be approved at great cost.
For the time being, however, the renewed investment of 75 million euros in Tyrol is part of a long success story. New standards were not set until May with the opening of a 300 million euro project in Schaftenau.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
