#London #United Kingdom #APIs #Samfara #Chr. Olesen

Samfara Completes Acquisition of Chr. Olesen Synthesis

In a significant advancement in the pharmaceutical sector, Samfara, a European life sciences investment firm, announced on October 2, 2026, the successful acquisition of Chr. Olesen Synthesis. Located near Copenhagen, the latter firm is renowned for its expertise in developing and manufacturing active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and advanced intermediates, particularly those related to controlled substances used in opioid use disorder treatments and ADHD management.

The deal marks Samfara's initial investment in the pharmaceuticals domain, supported by a diverse group of institutional investors from Europe and North America. Notably, Chief Executive Thomas Moestrup of Chr. Olesen Synthesis will also invest alongside Samfara, underscoring the strategic alignment between the two companies.

Although the financial details of the acquisition remain undisclosed, the merger is expected to bolster the infrastructure and production capacity of Chr. Olesen Synthesis, which has been operational since 2015. The cGMP-certified facility has established a strong reputation, supplying pharmaceutical companies across Europe, North America, and the Middle East.

Helena Malchione and James Cocker, partners at Samfara, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating that Chr. Olesen Synthesis represents their strategy of identifying promising companies operating in complex niches. With a robust standing and excellent reputation in a challenging sector, they are eager to collaborate with Moestrup and his team to drive growth and expand into new markets and segments.

Additionally, Jean-François Hilaire, a seasoned executive with previous experience as CEO of Unither, will join the board of Chr. Olesen Synthesis as Chair. This move is likely to enhance strategic direction and governance as the company navigates its future growth paths.

On the other hand, Thomas Moestrup expressed excitement about the partnership with Samfara, noting that their shared ambitions will foster the continued advancement of Chr. Olesen Synthesis. The firm is poised to build on its strong customer relationships while also seeking new market opportunities.

Mads C. Olesen, the Chief Executive of Chr. Olesen, stated that the time had come for new ownership to take the company forward, expressing confidence in Samfara’s ability to lead the business in its next phase. The historical context provided by Mads highlights the significant evolution that Chr. Olesen Synthesis has undergone since its acquisition in 2011, a transformation that has positioned it as a notable player in the controlled-substance API market.

In terms of advisory roles, Samfara engaged several firms, including Addleshaw Goddard for legal matters, Connaught for capital formation, and Lockton for insurance. Similarly, Chr. Olesen and Signet Healthcare Partners sought guidance from reputable entities such as LEK for commercial advice and PwC for financial and tax-related services.

About Samfara

Samfara, based in London, specializes in private equity investments focused on majority buyouts of lower mid-market European life sciences companies. Their investment philosophy is centered around identifying complex, international businesses that can benefit from active management and ownership, ultimately aiming to provide substantial returns to investors while supporting the development of life science companies.

About Chr. Olesen Synthesis

Chr. Olesen Synthesis is a Danish manufacturer renowned for its development of APIs and intermediates, especially those that fall under controlled substances. Their cGMP-certified facility services an extensive network that includes pharmaceutical companies spread across various continents. Through innovations and strategic partnerships, the firm continues to play an essential role in the pharmaceutical landscape.

As this acquisition unfolds, industry analysts and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how these two companies leverage their strengths to navigate the evolving pharmaceutical marketplace.