Thermo Fisher to close Massachusetts plant, affecting 160 jobs

Thermo Fisher Scientific (NYSE:TMO) is closing a facility as part of a shift in operations across Massachusetts.

The Boston Business Journal first reported the news last week.

According to the state of Massachusetts’ Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification program, the large medtech firm is enacting layoffs that affect 160 employees across three different locations in the state. That includes the closure of its facility in Lexington.

Thermo Fisher notified the state of the actions at the Lexington, Plainville and Cambridge facilities on Nov. 7. All changes go into effect between Jan. 6, 2025, and Nov. 6, 2026.

According to a company spokesperson, Thermo Fisher’s Lexington closure comes as a result of expansion in Plainville. The spokesperson issued the following statement to MassDevice via email:

“Thermo Fisher Scientific continuously evaluates our global operations to identify opportunities to improve efficiency and effectiveness in meeting our customers’ needs. We have decided to expand operations in our Plainville, MA site to extend the benefits of the recently built state-of-the-art facility and center of excellence for viral vector development and manufacturing capabilities to more customers. This decision allows us to better optimize resources across our manufacturing network and help our customers accelerate innovation and enhance productivity. Consequently, we have started the process of ceasing operations at our Lexington, MA site, transferring all current programs to our center of excellence in Plainville, MA, as well as adjusted staffing levels at our Cambridge, MA and Plainville, MA sites.

“Decisions that impact our colleagues and their families are never taken lightly. All impacted colleagues will receive job transition support to aid them in finding new opportunities.”

The company’s website states that the Plainville facility provides comprehensive viral vector services, from process development to commercial manufacturing. Cambridge also accommodates a broad-range of viral vector manufacturing process technologies.