Pfizer opens two state-of-the-art centres in Thessaloniki

This investment will put Greece at the forefront of research and innovation in Southeast Europe

On 12 October, the Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and the CEO of Pfizer Albert Bourla officially inaugurated two new Pfizer centres in Thessaloniki. Local media reports that Pfizer’s investment will contribute a whopping 650 million euros to the economy and accommodate around 700 employees.

Unveiling the new facilities, the Greek PM shared that Thessaloniki will now become the home of a new hub, consisting of two separate centres: the Global Centre for Digital Innovation (CDI) and Pfizer’s Global Centre for Business Operations and Services.

The CDI will reportedly develop innovative digital and technological solutions that will help the development of innovative drugs and vaccines. The global centre, on the other hand, will handle HR, financial, and corporate transformation services, among others. Together, these state-of-the-art centres will cover an area of 9,000 square metres.

Supporting innovation and research

At the inauguration of the centres, PM Mitsotakis praised the success of Bourla, noting that he was born and raised in Thessaloniki before moving abroad to become the CEO of one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical companies. Following his great success, Bourla is now giving back to his hometown and country by investing in Thessaloniki.

With the establishment of Pfizer’s centres, the Greek city will undoubtedly flourish as various other businesses will come to settle in the area. What is more, the PM further highlighted that Pfizer will also promote gender equality by employing more women than the average company in the industry. The Deputy Minister of Development and Investment Christos Dimas commented on the significance of the investment, noting:

"Investing in research and innovation is a strategic priority of our government. Greece must play a leading role in Southeast Europe in research and innovation. With today's investment we know that, not only do we achieve this goal, but Greece can also play a leading role worldwide. We are very proud of the fact that Pfizer actively supports the innovation ecosystem of our country.”