Genentech will shutter its long-running drug manufacturing plant in South San Francisco, cutting approximately 265 jobs as the company finalizes an exit strategy more than 15 years in the making.
The biotech giant confirmed the closure this week, marking the end of commercial production at a facility that has operated since 1983. The move reflects a broader industry shift toward newer, more specialized manufacturing hubs, even as legacy sites wind down operations.
The South San Francisco plant churned out cancer therapies for decades. Among the drugs produced there: Avastin, Tarceva, and Perjeta, all used in oncology treatment.
Workers affected by the layoffs will receive severance packages, extended health benefits, and career transition support. Those hoping to remain with Genentech can pursue openings at the company’s other production sites in Vacaville, Oceanside, and Hillsboro, Oregon.
Back in 2019, the facility employed around 900 people. Since then, most workers have shifted to different roles within Genentech, including positions at a new clinical supply center also located in South San Francisco.
As a result, the current layoffs represent the final wave of a long-planned transition rather than a sudden restructuring.
Company leadership acknowledged the contributions of the manufacturing workforce. In a statement, Genentech emphasized its commitment to supporting affected employees during the transition.
The closure leaves Genentech’s remaining California production footprint intact. Vacaville remains a major biologics manufacturing hub, while Oceanside focuses on smaller-scale clinical and commercial production.
For South San Francisco, the shutdown closes a chapter on one of the Bay Area’s earliest biotech manufacturing sites. The city still hosts Genentech’s headquarters and research operations, but commercial drug production will no longer happen there.
The layoffs come as the broader biotech sector faces tightening budgets and shifting investment priorities. Genentech, a subsidiary of Roche, has been consolidating some operations while expanding others linked to newer drug platforms.
The company did not specify an exact date for the final shutdown.
