Restructuring events
European Restructuring Monitor (ERM)
The restructuring events database contains factsheets with data on large-scale restructuring events reported in the principal national media and company websites in each EU Member State. This database was created in 2002.
Pfizer, a multinational pharmaceutical company, has announced approximately 370 job cuts (330 direct employees and 40 agency workers) at its production plant in Catania, Italy.
The restructuring follows a downsizing plan affecting the local manufacturing site, including the earlier closure of the penicillin department.
The job reductions are expected to involve direct dismissals of permanent staff as well as the non-renewal of temporary agency contracts, while potential indirect effects on subcontractors and service providers may also arise.
Trade unions (Filctem CGIL, Femca CISL, Uiltec UIL, UGL Chimici and CISAL) have reacted by announcing a programme of industrial action, including strikes and protests, requesting the resignation of the site director and calling for government intervention, while also criticising both company management and the limited response from local institutions.
Updated, 20/07/2026: Workers and trade unions organised a protest outside the Catania plant on 18 July 2026, calling on Pfizer to withdraw the redundancy procedure and seeking guarantees on the future of the site ahead of discussions at the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy (MIMIT).
Eurofound (2026), Pfizer, Internal restructuring in Italy, factsheet number 300721, European Restructuring Monitor. Dublin, https://apps.eurofound.europa.eu/restructuring-events/detail/300721.