Galapagos Winds Down Cell Therapy Business After Failed Sale, Cuts 365 Jobs and Shutters Global Sites

Galapagos is exiting the cell therapy business after failing to secure a buyer, ending a previously announced plan to separate and operate this segment independently13.

The company will cut 365 jobs—about 40% of its workforce—with 'meaningful reductions' in Belgium and closure of its site in France9.

Strategic alternatives, including a potential sale, were explored but received only 'limited' interest from external parties25.

Galapagos will now refocus its resources on other areas of its R&D pipeline, marking a significant shift in its business strategy13.

Sources:

1. https://www.biopharmadive.com/news/galapagos-wind-down-cell-therapy-business/803360/

2. https://www.glpg.com/press-releases/galapagos-provides-update-on-strategic-alternatives-for-its-cell-therapy-business/

3. https://marketchameleon.com/articles/b/2025/10/21/galapagos-winds-down-cell-therapy-business-for-strategic-growth

5. https://firstwordpharma.com/story/6229572

9. https://www.fiercebiotech.com/biotech/galapagos-gets-cold-feet-over-plans-split-company