Lonza Acquires Merck U.S. CDMO Facilities, Competing with Samsung Biologics
Lonza, a Swiss CDMO company, will acquire five U.S. facilities from Merck for 100-600 million Swiss francs, expanding its U.S. presence to nine locations and adding 1,100 employees. The acquired facilities are expected to generate 250 million Swiss francs in annual revenue by 2028. Samsung Biologics is also expanding, acquiring Polypeptide Group for 1.46 billion Swiss francs.
How this was made
The 30-second read
Why it matters
The acquisition positions Lonza as a larger player in U.S. biologics manufacturing, potentially driving its stock higher, while Merck's divestiture may weigh on its share price.
Market read
A material M&A deal in the biotech manufacturing space with immediate pricing implications for both Lonza and Merck.
What to watch
Regulatory approvals and integration risks could delay expected synergies for Lonza.
Background
Lonza, a Swiss CDMO, is expanding its U.S. footprint by acquiring Merck's five facilities, while Samsung Biologics pursues a separate CDMO deal.
Market effects
Consolidation in the CDMO sector may boost peers with similar capabilities.
Strengthens the U.S. biotech manufacturing ecosystem, potentially benefiting related biotech stocks.
Highlights ongoing competition between Lonza and Samsung Biologics for global CDMO market share.
Counterpoint
Merck could redeploy capital into higher‑margin R&D, offsetting short‑term revenue loss.
Key entities
- CompanyLonza Group AG
Swiss CDMO expanding U.S. operations.
- CompanyMerck KGaA
German pharmaceutical company selling U.S. CDMO assets.



