Algorithme Pharma has acquired Simbec Research in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales. The move gives the Laval, Quebec-based clinical research and bioanalysis provider, a foothold in Europe, and comes six weeks after the company's acquisition of a Baltimore, MD-based CRO.
Simbec has provided contract clinical research services to large pharmaceutical R&D companies for more than 30 years. The staff of the new Algorithme Pharma division in the UK is composed of a core team of approximately 100 employees who will join those already working at company locations in Montreal, Laval and Baltimore.
"Given the considerable growth of our 'international' clientele, it became necessary to acquire a location in Europe in order to better serve our fast-growing market once we had expanded to the U.S. The acquisition of this strategically-located and highly-respected clinical research centre is the first step in our European expansion strategy and provides us with an important base for future growth in the European market," explained Algorithme president and chief executive officer, Louis Caillé.
The Phase I and IIa UK location for clinical research includes a 38,000-sq.-ft. facility with 48 beds, all used by the Intensive Monitoring Unit. With this addition, Algorithme will increase its production capacity in Phase I and IIa drug development clinical trials.
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