Investing.com -- GSK announced Friday it will close its vaccine manufacturing facility in Dresden, Germany, in summer 2027. The plant currently produces flu and hepatitis vaccines.

The closure threatens 641 positions, according to German trade union Industriegewerkschaft Bergbau, Chemie, Energie (IGBCE). Workers at the facility were informed of the decision on Thursday.

The Dresden site manufactures traditional egg-based flu vaccines. GSK plans to move a mRNA-based seasonal influenza vaccine candidate into late-stage trials this month. Mid-stage data showed the new vaccine generated stronger immune responses than currently approved standard- and high-dose shots in both younger and older adults.

IGBCE said it will oppose the closure, with the plant's works council also rejecting the plans. The union warned that closing the facility would eliminate highly skilled industrial jobs from Saxony and remove important pharmaceutical manufacturing capabilities from Germany.