Danaher to acquire protein consumables supplier Abcam for $5.7bn

Danaher Corporation (NYSE: DHR), a global science and technology innovator, has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Abcam plc (NASDAQ: ABCM), a leading global supplier of protein consumables. The cash deal values Abcam at $24 per share, bringing the total enterprise value to approximately $5.7 billion, including assumed indebtedness and net of acquired cash.

Abcam to Strengthen Danaher’s Life Sciences Segment

Headquartered in Cambridge, UK, Abcam provides highly validated antibodies, reagents, biomarkers, and assays essential for drug discovery, life sciences research, and diagnostics. Abcam’s technologies are employed by nearly 750,000 researchers globally. The company is expected to operate as a standalone brand within Danaher’s Life Sciences segment, aligning with Danaher’s strategy to map complex diseases and speed up the drug discovery process.

A Win-Win for Both Companies in the Science and Technology Sector

“We couldn’t be more excited to have Abcam join Danaher,” said Rainer M. Blair, President and CEO of Danaher. “Abcam’s innovation, product quality, and extensive antibody portfolio make them a vital partner for the scientific community. This acquisition will help us address some of the world’s most pressing healthcare challenges.”

Alan Hirzel, CEO of Abcam, also expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. “Danaher shares our drive to assist life science researchers in achieving their objectives faster. Their operating model allows us to continue our strategy, fortified by the Danaher Business System, ensuring we remain the partner of choice for our customers.”

The deal is expected to close by mid-2024, subject to customary conditions including necessary regulatory approvals and Abcam shareholder approval. This transaction further solidifies Danaher’s and Abcam’s commitment to innovating and transforming the global life science community.