Brumath, France & Nottingham, UK 7/5/16—France’s Dominique Dutscher (DD) and the UK’s Scientific Laboratory Supplies (SLS), two independent laboratory product distributors, have announced a merger agreement. Financial details were not disclosed. The new company, the largest independent European distributor of lab products, will have revenues of €180 million ($200 million = €0.90 = $1). The companies stated that benefits will include shared best practices for marketing and logistics, an expanded product portfolio and new investments. “We are particularly excited about the extension of our group activities and the geographical reach that this change will bring,” commented Jocelyne Cachat, marketing director of DD.

A spokesperson for the combined company told IBO that the company has 570 employees. Each company will retain its existing name, website, brand and management teams. She told IBO, “DD and SLS are well aligned in terms in our respective market positions and company cultures.” Asked about the potential impact of Brexit, she said it is unknown at this point.