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

Samfara Completes Acquisition of Chr. Olesen Synthesis

Samfara, a European life sciences investment firm based in London, has announced the completion of its acquisition of Chr. Olesen Synthesis, a Danish manufacturer specializing in controlled-substance active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). This acquisition marks Samfara's first investment in the life sciences sector and is backed by a group of institutional investors from Europe and North America, along with family offices.

Details of the Acquisition

On October 2, 2026, Samfara finalized this strategic acquisition of Chr. Olesen Synthesis, which was facilitated by financial backing from prominent investors. The specific financial terms of the transaction remain undisclosed, but it represents a significant portfolio expansion for Samfara. Chief Executive Thomas Moestrup of Chr. Olesen Synthesis is set to invest alongside Samfara, reinforcing the commitment to the company’s growth trajectory.

Chr. Olesen Synthesis has been operational for several years, particularly known for the development and manufacturing of APIs and advanced intermediates with a focus on controlled substances. The company has made its mark by producing essential medications like buprenorphine, used for treating opioid use disorder, and lisdexamfetamine, used for managing ADHD. Their cGMP-certified facility, located near Copenhagen, has been engaged in commercial production since 2015, catering to various pharmaceutical firms across Europe, North America, and the Middle East.

Future Prospects

With Samfara’s involvement, Chr. Olesen Synthesis is poised to accelerate its business initiatives. The partnership aims at expanding both the customer base and operational capabilities. Helena Malchione and James Cocker, partners at Samfara, expressed their enthusiasm about the acquisition. They remarked, “Chr. Olesen Synthesis illustrates our strategy of identifying and supporting exceptional companies within complex niches of the pharmaceutical market.” They foresee the firm enhancing its reputation further and growing its outreach both organically and through potential acquisitions.

Strategic Leadership

To ensure effective governance, Jean-François Hilaire, a seasoned leader with previous roles as CEO of Unither and executive vice president at Recipharm, will join Chr. Olesen Synthesis as Chair. His comprehensive experience in the pharmaceutical industry is anticipated to provide valuable insights as the company embarks on its next phase of growth.

Insights from Key Players

Thomas Moestrup remarked on the acquisition, stating, “This is an exciting next step for Chr. Olesen Synthesis. With Samfara as our new owner, we have a strategic partner that shares our ambitions.” Moestrup emphasized the importance of building robust customer relationships and expanding business opportunities, indicating a roadmap that aligns with Samfara's vision.

Mads C. Olesen, the Chief Executive and owner of Chr. Olesen, shared his perspective on the transition, noting, “In 2011, we established Chr. Olesen Synthesis, and in collaboration with Signet Healthcare, we transformed it into a notable player in the controlled-substance API sector. We believe that the timing is ideal for new ownership to drive the company forward.” Olesen expressed confidence in Samfara’s abilities, wishing them all the best for future success.

Advisory Roles

This acquisition showcased a collaborative effort from various advisory firms. Samfara was guided by Addleshaw Goddard for legal advice in the UK, alongside teams from Connaught, infotransactions, Lockton, Nivaro Law, and RSM for comprehensive support in capital formation, financial due diligence, and tax structuring. Conversely, Chr. Olesen and Signet Healthcare Partners enlisted a range of advisers from LEK, Moalem Weitemeyer, Nielsen Nørager, PwC, Sheppard Mullin Richter Hampton, and Stifel.

About Samfara

Samfara is dedicated to identifying value in life sciences, focusing on majority buyouts in the lower mid-market sector. The firm prides itself on making strategic, thesis-led investments in complex international businesses, paving pathways for performance enhancements through active management. Samfara’s mission is to create lucrative returns for investors while contributing positively to the growth of life sciences companies across Europe.

For more information, visit Samfara's official website.

About Chr. Olesen Synthesis

Founded as a specialized manufacturer in Denmark, Chr. Olesen Synthesis excels in developing APIs and advanced intermediates with an emphasis on controlled substances. Operating from its cGMP-certified facility located in Hvidovre, near Copenhagen, the company plays a crucial role in supplying pharmaceutical needs across various continents, including Europe, North America, and the Middle East. To learn more, visit Chr. Olesen Synthesis's website.