Sanofi Will Acquire Ablynx for €3.9 Billion

Sanofi gains Nanobody® technology, strengthening their R&D pipeline.

Sanofi will acquire all shares, warrants and convertible bonds of Ablynx at €45 in cash each, totally a value of €3.9 billion. The Boards of Directors for both Sanofi and Ablynx unanimously approved the deal. With more than 45 proprietary and partnered candidates in their pipeline, Ablynx’s had a strong presence in Nanobody technology, making it an attractive candidate. There are currently eight Ablynx nanobodies in clinical development.

Sanofi's Chief Executive Officer Olivier Brandicourt commented on the transformative nature of the acquisition. "With Ablynx, we continue to advance the strategic transformation of our Research and Development, expanding our late-stage pipeline and strengthening our platform for growth in rare blood disorders. This acquisition builds on a successful existing partnership. We are also pleased to reaffirm our commitment to Belgium, where we have invested significantly over the years in our state-of-the-art biologics manufacturing facility in Geel. We intend to maintain and support the Ablynx science center in Ghent."

Likewise, Ablynx's Chief Executive Officer Edwin Moses, pointed out how the deal serves to not only benefit both companies, but most importantly, patients. "Since our founding in 2001, our team has been focused on unlocking the power of our Nanobody technology for patients. The results of our work are validated by clinical data. As we look ahead, we believe Sanofi's global infrastructure, commitment to innovation and commercial capabilities will accelerate our ability to deliver our pipeline. Our Board of Directors feels strongly that this transaction represents compelling value for shareholders and maximizes the potential of our pipeline to the benefit of all stakeholders."

Sanofi will accelerate the development of Ablynx's pipeline and is committed to pushing all candidates forward.

  

Guy Tiene

Guy supports the success of life science organizations by identifying synergies across research, content, marketing and communications resources to drive value for clients. With over 30 years of education and marketing experience and 18 years in the life sciences alone, Guy leads our editorial standards for client content, Pharma’s Almanac and Nice Insight research-based industry content as well as external communications for clients. Having served as head of global marketing and communications for a CMO, he also brings critical insight and guidance to all communications. Guy holds a Masters degree from Columbia University.

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