Thermo Fisher Scientific acquires Henogen from Novasep for €725m to expand viral vector manufacturing capabilities

Thermo Fisher Scientific has completed the acquisition of Henogen, a viral vector manufacturing business previously owned by Groupe Novasep, for €725 million in cash. This acquisition is set to significantly bolster Thermo Fisher’s position in the rapidly growing field of viral vector production, crucial for developing advanced gene and cell therapies. The deal further strengthens the company’s global footprint, especially in Europe, where Henogen operates its facilities.

Henogen, based in Belgium, operates two key manufacturing locations in Seneffe and Gosselies. Together, they provide over 7,000 square meters of clinical and commercial manufacturing capacity. This acquisition also brings approximately 400 skilled employees with substantial experience in viral vector production. The Henogen workforce has been instrumental in providing high-quality contract manufacturing services for biotech firms and large pharmaceutical companies involved in vaccine development and gene therapies. The business, which had an estimated revenue of €80 million in 2020, is poised to help Thermo Fisher meet growing demand for viral vectors in the biopharma sector.

Strengthening global capabilities in cell and gene therapies

Michel Lagarde, Executive Vice President of Thermo Fisher Scientific, highlighted the strategic fit of the acquisition, noting that Novasep’s viral vector business will enhance Thermo Fisher’s already robust capabilities in the production of cell and gene vaccines and therapies. According to Lagarde, this acquisition complements Thermo Fisher’s four existing development and manufacturing sites in North America, providing greater support and capacity for European customers. He stated, “The combination will benefit our global customers seeking support and capacity in the region as well as European customers bringing new medicines to patients inside and outside of Europe.”

By adding Henogen’s manufacturing capabilities to its portfolio, Thermo Fisher is now positioned to offer a comprehensive suite of services to biotech companies. These services range from early-stage development to commercial manufacturing, addressing the growing demand for high-quality viral vectors that are essential in cell and gene therapy advancements.

A promising future for viral vector services

Michel Spagnol, President and CEO of Novasep, emphasized the strength of the partnership, noting that Thermo Fisher’s scale and expertise would greatly benefit Henogen’s diverse customer base. He added that the employees involved in the acquisition would bring deep technical expertise to Thermo Fisher, an organization committed to providing cutting-edge medicines to patients.

The addition of Henogen marks an important milestone in Thermo Fisher’s strategy to expand its pharma services business, a division within its laboratory products and services unit. As the demand for gene therapies continues to rise globally, the acquisition positions Thermo Fisher to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of this innovative sector.

A move with global impact

Thermo Fisher’s acquisition of Henogen not only expands its manufacturing footprint but also demonstrates the company’s commitment to advancing gene and cell therapies. As the global demand for such treatments grows, this acquisition positions Thermo Fisher Scientific to be a leading player in the viral vector market, ensuring that it can meet the needs of customers worldwide while contributing to the development of life-saving therapies.