Advent Sells Zentiva to GTCR
In a significant move within the pharmaceutical sector, Advent announced on September 12, 2025, that it has sold Zentiva, a leading European generic drugs manufacturer, to GTCR, a prominent player in the private equity market. This transaction marks a crucial transition for Zentiva, which Advent has been steering since acquiring it from Sanofi in 2018.
Zentiva has undergone a transformative journey under Advent's stewardship, focusing on expanding its drug offerings and manufacturing capabilities. This growth has been achieved through a combination of organic development and targeted mergers and acquisitions. Advent’s partnership has been instrumental in enhancing Zentiva's operational excellence and building its research and development potential. This has enabled Zentiva to provide a diverse range of high-quality products to millions of patients across Europe.
GTCR's Expertise in Healthcare
GTCR, recognized for its extensive experience in the healthcare sector, has established a strong track record in investing in pharmaceutical companies. Over the past 20 years, GTCR has successfully invested in leading platforms and has completed numerous acquisitions, demonstrating its deep sector expertise. With its strategic approach, GTCR intends to support Zentiva by focusing on organic growth, product innovation, and strategic acquisitions, enabling the company to further excel in the competitive pharmaceutical landscape.
Steffen Saltofte, the CEO of Zentiva, emphasized the importance of Advent as a transformative partner. He acknowledged that Advent’s commitment to improving operational and revenue potential has been crucial for Zentiva's development and the accessibility of high-quality medications for patients. He expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with GTCR to build upon this momentum for ongoing growth and improved access to affordable medicines.
Tom Allen, Managing Director of Advent, noted that the acquisition in 2018 represented a unique opportunity to create an independent leader in affordable pharmaceuticals. His commentary highlighted how through active collaboration with management and investment in potentials, Zentiva has more than doubled its revenue and EBITDA, laying a solid foundation for the future.
Sean Cunningham, Managing Director and Head of Healthcare at GTCR, expressed excitement about partnering with Saltofte and the talented management team at Zentiva. He recognized Zentiva's impressive achievements in both organic and inorganic expansion and commended its efficient manufacturing platform, reiterating the company’s mission of delivering high-quality medications to patients throughout Europe.
Regulatory Approval and Future Prospects
The transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals, is expected to finalize in early 2026. Advent utilized Goldman Sachs and PJT Partners for financial advisory services and Freshfields for legal counsel during this transaction process. Conversely, GTCR was primarily advised by Barclays Bank PLC and BNP Paribas for financial matters, with Morgan Stanley also involved, while Kirkland & Ellis LLP provided legal advice.
Zentiva is dedicated to the health and wellbeing of all generations, focusing on developing, manufacturing, and delivering high-quality medications at accessible prices to over 100 million people across more than 30 countries. With four manufacturing facilities and a broad network of external production partners, Zentiva employs over 5,000 skilled professionals committed to helping those in need of its medicines.
Advent Capital, a global leader in private equity investments, collaborates with management teams and founders for business transformations. With assets over $100 billion across 16 offices worldwide, Advent has accumulated specialized market knowledge in key sectors including healthcare, consumer products, and technology since its inception in 1984.
GTCR, established in 1980, is known for its Leaders Strategy™, which focuses on partnering with management leaders to identify, acquire, and build market-leading companies. With over $50 billion in managed equity, GTCR has invested more than $30 billion across 290 companies, continuing to play a crucial role in the dynamic nature of private equity in healthcare and beyond.
For further details on Zentiva, visit their website at
www.zentiva.com.