Cerba Vet and ANTAGENE represent a strategic investment for Mars Petcare’s Science & Diagnostics division to help broaden and enhance diagnostics offerings to veterinary professionals in Europe
McLean, Virginia, USA (May 3, 2024) — Mars, Incorporated today announced that it has entered into exclusive discussions with Cerba HealthCare with a view to acquiring Cerba HealthCare’s ownership stake in Cerba Vet and ANTAGENE.
Headquartered in Massy, France, Cerba Vet is a network of six veterinary diagnostics laboratories in France and Switzerland. With approximately 140 Associates, Cerba Vet provides full animal-related service diagnostics with complete clinical and anatomic pathology testing as well as endocrinology, microbiology, serology, hematology, chemistry, and other advanced tests, to veterinary practitioners. Cerba Vet is recognized by veterinarians in France for its medical expertise and pioneering continuous education program, the Cerba Vet College, with weekly live webinars and several practical sessions annually.
Headquartered in Lyon, France, ANTAGENE is a leading player in animal genetics in Europe, recognised for its expertise in DNA testing for dogs, cats, horses and wildlife. ANTAGENE offers tests globally for diagnosing diseases in pets, as well as supporting scientific initiatives to preserve biodiversity.
Cerba Vet and ANTAGENE complement Antech, the veterinary diagnostics business of Mars Science & Diagnostics, which provides a full portfolio of diagnostics solutions to veterinary professionals around the world.
Nefertiti Greene, President, Mars Science & Diagnostics, said: “We are excited about this opportunity and look forward to finalizing discussions and working together with the Cerba Vet and ANTAGENE teams to enhance our reach and drive R&D to help veterinarians improve animal health outcomes, delivering A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS™.”
Emmanuel Ligner, CEO, Cerba HealthCare, added: “We are proud of what the teams have accomplished over the years to lead innovation and enhance services for the entire veterinarian community. We believe that Mars Science & Diagnostics is the right investor for Cerba Vet and ANTAGENE and would be able to support the long-term development and growth of these businesses. Mars Science & Diagnostics is known for its commitment to science and innovation, strong partnerships with veterinary professionals and purpose-driven culture.”
The contemplated acquisition remains subject to the information and/or consultation of the employees and employee representative bodies of Cerba Vet and ANTAGENE. Completion of such contemplated acquisition would also be subject to customary closing requirements following the execution of definitive transaction agreements.
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