Merck has entered into definitive agreements to acquire Berlin-based Biochrom. The parties agreed not to disclose the purchase price. The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions such as the approval of the respective antitrust authority. Closing of the transaction is expected in the fourth quarter of 2012.
The acquisition will strengthen Merck Millipore’s Process Solutions business unit, which provides products, services and solutions that simplify production complexity for pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical manufacturers. Biochrom’s cell-culture media products are highly complementary and innovative, adding liquid cell-culture media and buffers including serum-free products and disposable packaging solutions to the existing 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,” said Robert Yates, Head, Merck Millipore division.
Dr Bernd Frenzel, CEO, Biochrom said, “Merck Millipore is the ideal partner for Biochrom. With Merck Millipore we will be able to leverage their industry relationships and global footprint to reach more customers and offer a more comprehensive portfolio of media and buffers.”
It is planned to maintain Biochrom’s operations in Berlin. Biochrom’s activities will be part of Merck Millipore’s Process Solutions business unit.
EP News Bureau