Merck to Acquire Bio-Techne to Expand Life Sciences Leadership

Merck, a leading science and technology company, and Bio-Techne Corporation, a Minneapolis-based global provider of life science tools, analytical technologies, and consumables, entered into a definitive agreement pursuant to which Merck will, subject to customary closing conditions, acquire Bio-Techne for US$73 per share in cash, representing a total enterprise value of approximately US$11.3 billion (EUR 9.9 billion), a 36% premium to Bio-Techne’s one-month volume weighted average trading price.

The transaction would bring together two highly complementary and leading life sciences organizations, uniquely positioned to support customers across the full spectrum of life science workflows – from discovery and translational research through development, testing and commercial manufacturing. Additionally, it would directly deliver on Merck’s mid- to long-term strategic agenda, which focuses on high-growth value drivers, integrated workflows, platformed capabilities and scaling and sourcing innovation through M&A.

“This transaction is an important milestone towards delivering on our mid- to long-term strategic agenda. Bio-Techne is an outstanding fit that directly supports our strategic direction focused on delivering cutting-edge products and solutions across the entire industry value chain – from lab customers to those manufacturing in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries,” said Kai Beckmann, Chairman of the Executive Board and Group CEO of Merck. “By combining Bio-Techne’s scientific depth, innovation engine and differentiated portfolio with Merck’s global scale, manufacturing excellence and customer reach, we are in a strong position to address some of the most important opportunities in life sciences and support our customers in accelerating the next generation of scientific discovery and therapeutic innovation. This positions us to deliver compelling strategic and financial benefits for shareholders, customers and employees.”

“Building on our strong track record in the Life Science Business, this transaction strengthens our presence in some of the most exciting and fastest-growing areas of the life sciences, including multi-omics, spatial biology, precision diagnostics and cell and gene therapy," said Jean-Charles Wirth, Member of the Executive Board of Merck and CEO Life Science. “It adds capabilities across our Discovery Solutions, Advanced Solutions and Process Solutions offerings, to support customers across increasingly complex scientific workflows.”