Merck Millipore Sells Business to Eurofins
A Merck Millipore spokesperson told IBO that the product lines that are part of the transaction consist of cell-based assays (ion channels, GPCRs), biochemicals, kinases and ubiquitin proteins. Asked about why the sale was made at this time, he said, “The DDS business has demonstrated a potential for success that EMD/Merck Millipore is not in a position to fully support. We believe that the potential of DDS can be better realized by a company with a strong Pharma Service focus.”
Brussels, Belgium 1/9/14—Food and pharmaceutical lab services firm Eurofins has agreed to acquire Merck Millipore’s (EMD Millipore in the US and Canada) Discovery and Development Solutions business (DDS) for an undisclosed amount. DDS provides bioanalytical testing and early-state discovery services and products to the biopharmaceutical market, including discovery pharmacology services and bioanalytical testing to support clinical trials. With 175 employees based in the US, Scotland and England, DDS generates annual revenues of around $35 million. “The addition of DDS into the Eurofins network reinforces our leading position in the discovery pharmacology market and expands our large molecules bioanalytical service capability to meet the growing needs of our pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical clients,” stated Eurofins CEO Dr. Gilles Martin. Eurofins will retain DDS employees, and Christina Shasserre will continue to lead the business. DDS will continue to provide products and services to Merck KGaA’s pharmaceutical business. Following completion of the transaction, DDS will be known as Eurofins Pharma Bio-Analytical Services. The deal is expected to close within 90 days.
