CRL has acquired KWS BioTest.

Charles River Laboratories spent has announced the acquisition of leading contract research organization KWS BioTest. KWS BioTest specialized in in vitro and in vivo discovery testing services for immuno-oncology, as well as inflammatory and infectious diseases.

The buyout took place for £15 million in cash (or approximately $20 million) with a potential future payment of £3 million (or about $4 million), based on future performance. Addressing the acquisition and added capacity, James C. Foster, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Charles River, commented: “The addition of KWS strategically expands Charles River’s existing discovery capabilities in the field of immunology, which is critical given the importance of new therapies which harness the human immune system.”

“In addition to enhancing our position as the premier single-source provider for a broad portfolio of discovery services, KWS increases our ability to support clients’ early-stage drug research in critical therapeutic areas, and expands our geographic footprint in the United Kingdom. 

Charles River Laboratories is focused on the discovery and early-stage development of therapies.