Sigma Aldrich News
2 articles
growth-positive
German Merck acquires firms, expands presence in Israel
Merck KGaA plans to expand its presence in Israel with two acquisitions in the life science and performance materials sectors. The company is acquiring the remaining stake in Qlight Nanotech, a company that specializes in nanocrystals for improving color impression and energy efficiency of flat panel displays. Additionally, once Mercks acquisition of Sigma-Aldrich Corp is approved, it will add 250 employees at two production sites in Israel, doubling Mercks workforce in the country. Merck Serono, the companys biopharmaceutical division, also has significant research operations in Israel. Merck has committed to investing up to 10 million euros in early stage biomedical companies through its Merck Serono Israel Bioincubator.
AcquisitionExpand
growth-positive
Merck of Germany to Acquire Sigma-Aldrich for $17 Billion
Merck of Germany has agreed to acquire Sigma-Aldrich, a life sciences company, for $17 billion. The deal is expected to increase Mercks presence in North America and give it added exposure to markets in Asia. Merck will acquire all outstanding shares of Sigma-Aldrich for $140 per share in cash, representing a 37 percent premium on the companys closing price from Friday. The transaction is described as a quantum leap for Mercks life sciences business. The deal is expected to result in annual cost savings of about 260 million euros within three years. The transaction is subject to shareholder and regulatory approval and is expected to close in mid-2015.
Acquisition
