KENILWORTH, NJ, and VITRÉ, FRANCE — Merck plans to acquire Antelliq, a company focused on digital animal identification, traceability and monitoring solutions, in a $2.4 billion deal.
Antelliq’s solutions help veterinarians, farmers and pet owners gather data to improve management, health and well-being of livestock and pets. The company will be a wholly owned and separately operated subsidiary within the Merck Animal Health Division.
“Merck Animal Health is a leader in the animal health business and has delivered consistent above-market growth driven by a broad portfolio of innovative pharmaceuticals, vaccines and other value-added technologies and services,” said Kenneth C. Frazier, chairman and chief executive officer, Merck. “Antelliq’s people and products complement this portfolio by adding market-leading digital products, extending the range of solutions we can provide our customers and further driving the growth of our business. This acquisition is well aligned with our strategy to generate long-term growth and sustainable value for our customers and shareholders.”
Stefan Weiskopf, CEO of Antelliq, added: “Merck has a strong and growing animal health business, and we are delighted that our superior offering of technology, products and services, as well as our global relationships, together with Merck, will bring additional value to our customers. With more than 60 years of experience, we are constantly re-imagining animal care to improve the quality of life for animals and for the people who care for them.”
Rick DeLuca, president of Merck Animal Health, stated: “The animal health industry is rapidly evolving with revolutionary digital solutions to manage the health and well-being of livestock and companion animals. Animal identification, animal monitoring and smart data management are critical components of this transformative technology. This acquisition represents yet another way that we will ensure our place as a leader in animal health, with a substantial and sustainable position, including the most innovative, technological solutions to serve our customers.”
Merck is buying Antelliq from funds advised by BC Partners. The deal is subject to clearance by antitrust and competition law authorities and other customary closing conditions, and is expected to close in the second quarter of 2019.
Antelliq was previously known as Allflex Group.