Global science firm Danaher has announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Abcam, a leading global supplier to research scientists for approximately $5.7 billion.
Founded in 1998 and headquartered in Cambridge, UK, Abcam offers the scientific community highly validated antibodies, reagents, biomarkers and assays to address targets in biological pathways that are critical for advancing drug discovery, life sciences research, and diagnostics. Its technologies are used by approximately 750,000 researchers.
Abcam is expected to operate as a standalone operating company and brand within Danaher's Life Sciences segment, furthering Danaher's strategy to help map complex diseases and accelerate the drug discovery process.
Rainer M Blair, President and Chief Executive Officer, Danaher, said: "We couldn't be more excited to have Abcam join Danaher. Abcam's long track record of innovation, outstanding product quality and breadth of antibody portfolio positions them as a key partner for the scientific community. We look forward to welcoming Abcam's innovative and talented team to Danaher as we continue to help our customers solve some of the world's biggest healthcare challenges."
Alan Hirzel, Chief Executive Officer, Abcam, added: "Our strategy has transformed Abcam to become a scale innovator and important catalyst in the global life science community. Danaher shares our passion to help life science researchers achieve their mission faster and their operating company model allows us to continue to pursue our strategy, while harnessing the power of the Danaher Business System to ensure we remain the partner of choice for our customers."
The transaction is anticipated to close mid-2024 and is subject to customary conditions, including receipt of applicable regulatory approvals and Abcam shareholder approval. Danaher expects to fund the acquisition using cash on hand and proceeds from the issuance of commercial paper.