A European joint vaccine operation between pharmaceutical companies Sanofi Pasteur and Merck is drawing to a close.
Going forward, the companies will meld their European vaccine businesses into their own operations, meaning their product portfolios will be separate, and their staffs and researchers will develop their own growth programs.
The 50-50 venture began in 1994. Both companies provided vaccines that were jointly commercialized in 19 European nations.
"We are proud of Sanofi Pasteur MSD’s successful 20-year history," Sanofi and Merck officials said. "Our joint venture has achieved considerable success over the past two decades from a public health and commercial perspective."
The split, which may affect some employees, is expected to be complete by the end of the year. Company officials will be vigilant about making sure all local labor laws and regulations are followed.
"After carefully considering our individual strategic priorities, alongside the economic and regulatory environments for vaccine operations in the European Union, we have mutually agreed that it is in our best interests to manage our vaccine product portfolios independently," the officials said. "We believe that focusing our efforts on opportunities unique to our respective companies will better position us to drive growth, execute in a more efficient manner and optimize vaccine coverage. By bringing vaccines more rapidly to market, both companies would deliver greater value to all stakeholders."
More information is available online at Merck's home page.
