Shire plc has acquired sanaplasma AG, a source plasma collection company headquartered in Switzerland. The acquisition is expected to increase Shire’s access to plasma in the longer term and add to its European plasma collection network, complementing existing core capabilities in plasma supply and manufacturing.
Plasma is essential to the manufacture of immunoglobulin therapies that help treat patients living with certain rare immunological diseases. Immunology is Shire’s largest franchise, with 18% growth on a pro-forma basis in 2017 to $4.4 billion in product sales, primarily driven by increased global demand for subcutaneous and intravenous immunoglobulin brands. This acquisition is expected to support the growth of the Immunology business and help meet the needs of patients around the world.
Sue Brown, VP Global Operations for Shire BioLife Plasma Services, said: “The acquisition of sanaplasma AG demonstrates Shire’s commitment to its rapidly growing and leading Immunology business. The combination of sanaplasma AG’s 14 plasma centers in the Czech Republic and Hungary with our more than 100 BioLife centers in the US and Austria will help us to meet the continuously growing demand for plasma-derived medicines.”
Dr. Martin Lukas, co-owner of sanaplasma AG said: “I look forward to working with the team at Shire during the transition to help ensure continuity of supply, know-how transfer, and a smooth handover to position the business for future success as it continues to meet patient needs.”
sanaplasma AG is a privately-owned company focused on source plasma collection through its operation of 14 European plasmapheresis centers; 11 in the Czech Republic and three in Hungary.
Shire’s immunology franchise has a strong legacy in developing therapies for people living with HAE, primary and secondary immunodeficiency, and rare autoimmune and neurological conditions. Shire is committed to serial innovation, and the company’s broad portfolio includes a number of therapy options that can be tailored to meet personal patient needs. Beyond Shire’s focus on developing novel treatments, the company provides specialized services and support offerings that help meet the needs of patients.
(Source: Shire)
