BioNTech, headquartered in Mainz, is set to acquire its long-time rival CureVac from Tübingen, a move that aims to create one of Germany's largest biotech companies following their successes during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This acquisition comes at a time when BioNTech reported losses in March 2025, underscoring the need for consolidation in the biotech sector amid economic pressures.

The acquisition, announced on June 12, 2025, raises concerns about potential job cuts at CureVac, which has faced financial challenges and previously announced layoffs in March 2024.

CureVac CEO Alexander Zehnder has stated that while no immediate layoffs are planned, the company has already streamlined its operations due to previous overstaffing.

While job impacts in Mainz may be minimal, the future of employment at CureVac's Tübingen location remains uncertain, with potential layoffs anticipated due to operational synergies.

CureVac currently employs around 700 people at its Tübingen headquarters, and these jobs are considered to have a 'relative security,' although they ultimately depend on BioNTech's decisions.

Analysts view this acquisition as a strategic response to the challenges faced by both firms in the rapidly evolving biotech landscape.

Despite the positive reception, the primary motivation behind BioNTech's move is pragmatic, focusing on strategic business growth rather than solely on innovation.

The Landesagentur Biopro Baden-Württemberg suggests that the acquisition could strengthen CureVac's Tübingen headquarters and enhance its research and production capabilities in mRNA-based cancer immunotherapies.

This acquisition is being hailed as the formation of a new 'national champion' in biotechnology.

The deal highlights the competitive nature of the biotech sector in Germany, where companies are striving to enhance their market positions amidst increasing global competition.

Concerns are arising at both companies' locations about potential job losses and the impact on local economies due to the consolidation.