Merck to Shut Down London-Based Drug Research Facility

Merck (MRK.N) announced on Wednesday that it will be closing its research operations in London, citing the challenging business environment in the UK.

The company confirmed that it no longer plans to operate out of Belgrove House in King’s Cross, a facility that was scheduled to open in 2027. The closure will affect approximately 125 employees.

Merck stated that it will transfer its research activities to existing sites, primarily in the United States.

With tariff threats from the Trump administration and increasing pressure to shift more manufacturing to the U.S., pharmaceutical companies are ramping up investment in American operations.

In its statement, Merck said, “This decision reflects the challenges posed by the UK’s underinvestment in the life sciences sector and the lack of meaningful progress by successive British governments in addressing the broader devaluation of innovative medicines and vaccines.”