European life sciences investment firm Samfara has completed the acquisition of pharmaceutical manufacturer Chr. Olesen Synthesis from Chr. Olesen and funds managed by Signet Healthcare Partners for an undisclosed sum.
Based near Copenhagen, Chr. Olesen Synthesis develops and manufactures active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and advanced intermediates, with a particular focus on controlled substances used in treatments for opioid use disorder and ADHD.
Its cGMP-certified plant has been in commercial production since 2015 and supplies pharmaceutical companies across Europe, North America and the Middle East.
Chr. Olesen acquired the business in 2011 and subsequently partnered with healthcare investment firm Signet Healthcare Partners. As part of the transaction, chief executive Thomas Moestrup will invest alongside Samfara and continue to lead the business.
Under its new ownership, Chr. Olesen Synthesis will continue to develop its capabilities, while expanding its existing customer and product base and entering new markets. Jean-François Hilaire will also join the board of Chr. Olesen Synthesis as chair.
Helena Malchione and James Cocker, partners of Samfara, said: “Chr. Olesen Synthesis illustrates our strategy of finding winning companies in complex niches and backing them with capital and strategic support. It holds a strong position and an excellent reputation in a demanding part of the pharmaceutical market, and we look forward to working with Thomas and the team as they grow with existing customers and expand into new markets, both organically and through acquisitions.”
Thomas Moestrup, chief executive of Chr. Olesen Synthesis said: “This is an exciting next step for Chr. Olesen Synthesis. With Samfara as our new owner, we have a partner who shares our ambitions and will support the continued development of the business. We look forward to building on our strong customer relationships, expanding the business and developing the opportunities ahead of us.”
Mads C. Olesen, chief executive and owner of Chr. Olesen, said: “In 2011, Chr. Olesen acquired Chr. Olesen Synthesis and, together with Signet Healthcare, has built it into a significant player in controlled-substance APIs. The time is right for new owners to take the business forward, and we are confident that we have entrusted the company to the right new owner. We extend our best wishes to Samfara and the management team of the company.”
