Fresenius sells biotechnology business

Fresenius has sold Fresenius Biotech to the Fuhrer family, owners of Neopharm, Israel's second-largest pharmaceutical company. The transaction was closed June 28 and includes both products Removab and ATG-Fresenius S.

In December 2012, Fresenius had announced to focus on its four established business segments Fresenius Medical Care, Fresenius Kabi, Fresenius Helios and Fresenius Vamed, which offer significant growth opportunities.

Ulf Mark Schneider, CEO of Fresenius, said: "The divestiture underlines our strong commitment to focused growth in our four core business segments. We are delighted that our biotechnology business will be in the capable hands of Neopharm, a company with entrepreneurial vision and an outstanding track record in the healthcare field."

David Fuhrer, Chairman and CEO of Neopharm, said: "The acquisition represents a cornerstone in our strategic objective to transform Neopharm Group into a multinational fully-integrated bio-pharmaceutical company. Our objective is to establish Fresenius Biotech as an independent, rapidly-growing, innovative global player which is committed to bring hope to patients suffering from rare, life-threatening diseases."

The parties agreed not to disclose financial details of the transaction. The sale of Fresenius Biotech will have a positive effect on Group earnings starting July 2013.