Gambro consolidates to ensure sustainable growth, innovation and R&D
Gambro will focus on producing HD concentrates in small flexible packaging formats and is exiting the market for standard HD concentrates in canisters and bulk containers in Europe by the end of this year. At the same time, Gambro is consolidating the European manufacturing of bloodlines in Medolla, Italy and in Přerov, Czech Republic.
Today Gambro has several factories that manufacture the same product types which has led to an overcapacity in its European manufacturing network. To address this Gambro is making the following changes in its manufacturing operations:
First, Gambro is discontinuing operations and is exploring a number of strategic options with respect to its HD concentrate manufacturing facilities in Parede, Portugal, and in Neubrandenburg, Germany, including a possible spin off of the plants. Gambro will also discontinue the manufacturing of HD concentrates in canisters and bulk containers in Hechingen, Germany and relocate other concentrate manufacturing to Sondalo, Italy. Furthermore, Gambro will consolidate bloodline manufacturing in Medolla, Italy and Přerov, Czech Republic. Consequently, Gambro will discontinue manufacturing operations in Latina, Italy. Gambro has informed the trade unions and will follow labour laws in impacted countries.
"We are committed and focused on minimizing any potential inconvenience for our customers and to ensure that we find the best solution for our employees," says Francisco Canal, President of Global Operations for Gambro. "The changes are prerequisites to take advantage of and better leverage our manufacturing base in order to ensure improved competitiveness and allow for increased investments in R&D."
Gambro will invest and continue to expand its R&D activities and manufacturing of high technology products in Medolla, Italy. Gambro will also invest in additional capacity in the plant in Přerov, Czech Republic. Over the next two years, Gambro plans to create significant employment opportunities in the European Union.