Merck Acquires Cell Culture Media Provider
Merck Millipore continues to add to its cell culture media business, following the purchase last year of Beijing Skywing Technology (see IBO 1/15/11). The cell culture media segment has also attracted increased investments by GE Healthcare (see IBO 8/31/11) and Corning Life Science (see IBO 12/15/11). Strategic Directions International estimates the cell culture market, consisting of products for both lab and process applications, at approximately $3 billion.
Darmstadt, Germany 8/22/12—Merck KGaA has agreed to acquire Germany-based Biochrom, a producer and marketer of cell culture media and buffer solutions, for an undisclosed amount. In 2011, Biochrom had sales of €13 million ($18 million = €0.72 = $1) and 60 employees. Biochrom will join Merck Millipore’s Process Solutions business unit, adding liquid cell culture media and buffers including serum-free products and disposable-packaging solutions to its portfolio. “With Biochrom we have a great opportunity to deliver an expanded portfolio of cell culture media products to our global customers and address a growing demand for ready-to-use liquid solutions that drive safety and efficiency in the development and manufacture of clinical and commercial drug materials,” stated Robert Yates, head of Merck Millipore. Merck plans to maintain Biochrom’s operations in Berlin. The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter.
