#Switzerland #Cerbios-Pharma #HAS Healthcare #Biasca #CDMO sector

Significant Merger in the CDMO Industry

On March 31, 2025, HAS Healthcare Advanced Synthesis SA, a prominent global developer of active pharmaceutical ingredients, announced its strategic acquisition of Cerbios-Pharma SA, a distinguished manufacturer of chemical and biological APIs. This acquisition is set to revolutionize the Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) landscape by leveraging the combined expertise and capabilities of both firms.

Background of the Companies

HAS Healthcare Advanced Synthesis, headquartered in Biasca, Switzerland, has built a robust reputation for over four decades in the pharmaceutical sector, specializing in the development and production of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), high-potency APIs (HPAPIs), and anticancer compounds.

Cerbios-Pharma, also Swiss-based, brings nearly 50 years of experience in manufacturing generic APIs and offering CDMO services, particularly in the rapidly expanding market of antibody drug conjugates (ADCs).

The Rationale for the Acquisition

This merger is primarily driven by the need to feedback into the globally growing pharmaceuticals industry, where there is an increasing demand for complex therapies. With 65 Equity Partners, who will hold around 40% of the merged entity, providing financial backing, both companies will enhance their market position and product offerings. Additionally, the merger aims to drive sustained growth and innovation while retaining the foundational values and corporate culture that both organizations have long championed.

Strategic Implications

The newly formed entity from the merger will position itself as an industry leader, equipped to cater to the evolving needs of the global pharmaceutical marketplace. The strategies laid out include a commitment to high-quality solutions and the integration of production capabilities spanning various therapeutic areas, including oncology, neurology, and rare diseases. The merger is expected to significantly increase the capacity for research, innovation, and customer service, driving long-term value for both companies.

Comments on the Merger

Riccardo Braglia, the CEO of 3B Future Holding SA, indicated, "We are excited about this operation, which marks a significant milestone in our global expansion strategy. By merging complementary skills and resources, we are confident in our ability to provide innovative, personalized, and high-quality solutions."

Pascal Heberling from 65 Equity Partners expressed, "This transaction has been long in the making and is a strategic move to create an internationally significant chemical and pharmaceutical hub in Ticino. We aim to further improve the quality of services provided to our clients while enhancing the market position of both companies."

Future Directions

The merger is still subject to regulatory approval, and with this acquisition, both entities expect to begin a fruitful collaboration that will not only deepen their engagement with existing clients but also attract new partnerships across various areas in healthcare.

Combined, HAS and Cerbios will pool resources and expertise that will heavily influence the future landscape of pharmaceutical ingredients, allowing them to better navigate the challenges ahead. The integration of their extensive portfolios promises not only to fortify their market presence but also to redefine the standards for quality in the CDMO sector, making this a notable event for the industry at large.