CSL Ltd. has signed an agreement to acquire Talecris Biotherapeutics Holdings Corp. for $3.1 billion, enhancing its position in the global plasma market. Talecris produces plasma medicines in the U.S. and operates 56 plasma collection centers and two manufacturing facilities. For the year ended June 30, Talecris had sales of $1.2 billion and earnings of $258 million. The company also operates a sterile CMO business.
   
CSL managing director Brian McNamee commented, “Talecris is highly complementary with CSL’s business and the deal will increase output and profitability and diversify CSL’s product range. ” Mr. McNamee added that the purchase of Talecris would add 10% to earnings per share in its first year of acquisition.
   
According to the company, CSL expects to reduce costs by approximately $220 million over three years, with the majority of the synergies appearing in the second and third year. The acquisition, subject to regulatory approvals, will give CSL access to key plasma products such as Gamunex and Prolastin and expand its geographical presence. The deal would also add to CSL’s position against rivals Baxter International, Grifols and Octapharma.
   
“We continue to anticipate stable market conditions for our plasma therapies business,” which is growing at 8% to 10% a year, Mr. McNamee said.