Celltrion (KRX:068270), a global biopharmaceutical leader, announced its acquisition of iQone Healthcare Switzerland, a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on distribution, sales, and marketing in Switzerland.
The acquisition, expected to close by Q4, 2024, represents a significant milestone in Celltrion’s European expansion strategy. Upon completion, iQone Healthcare Switzerland will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Celltrion Healthcare Hungary Kft. The deal will also provide Celltrion access to in-licensing opportunities, further strengthening its pipeline of innovative therapies.
Taehun Ha, Head of Europe and Vice President of Celltrion, Inc., emphasized the acquisition’s importance, stating, “This move represents a strategic shift in our growth strategy. While we have successfully built direct sales networks, we are now leveraging acquisitions to accelerate our European expansion. With a distribution network spanning more than 20 regions, we are well-positioned to compete in the increasingly competitive biosimilar market.”
He added, “As a fully integrated company, Celltrion manages every stage of the value chain—from R&D and manufacturing to sales, marketing and distribution. This integration enables us to continue and expand our stable and growing supply of high-quality biosimilars, including in Switzerland, where we aim to further solidify our market presence and portfolio. It also underscores our commitment to leadership through local operational excellence and continuous innovation.”
Laurent Massuyeau, founder and Executive Chairman of iQone Healthcare Switzerland, expressed his optimism, stating, “Our successful decade-long partnership with Celltrion has laid very strong foundations for this integration. By combining Celltrion’s portfolio expertise with our established commercial operation, this acquisition will drive growth and enhance access to essential biosimilar and innovative medicines in Switzerland.
True to our values and with the support of the program “iQone for You”, an outstanding set of services directed to healthcare professionals and specially crafted for the Swiss market, we will continue to serve our customers with agility and efficiency and bring new therapeutic opportunities quickly to Switzerland.”
