SGS has acquired M-Scan, a group of chemical analysis labs that provides advanced chemical and biochemical testing, GLP/GMP contract analytical services, and consultancy and training based on mass spectrometry and chromatography. The M-Scan group consists of four labs with marketing offices in Europe, and agents in Korea, India and Singapore. The company has 61 employees and generated more than $11.1 million in revenue in 2009.

“This acquisition clearly complements our vision to become one of the top players within the biologics testing arena,” said Chris Kirk, chief executive officer of SGS. “The acquisition of M-Scan is a milestone in the implementation of our strategy to take advantage of the on-going, high-growth development of vaccines and monoclonal antibodies. M-Scan’s global recognition, and expertise together with its geographic footprint combined with the existing advanced analytical services in SGS Life Science provides an excellent platform for further growth and development.”

M-Scan founder Howard Morris said, “We see compelling synergies between the respective current testing activities of M-Scan and SGS and an exciting opportunity to provide our customers with an enhanced range of services complementing our core strengths in advanced mass spectrometric and chromatographic analysis in the fields of biopharmaceutical characterization, oil/petroleum analysis and environmental monitoring.”

M-Scan provides analytical services including: protein/glycoprotein analysis, pharmaceutical analysis, extractables/leachables and bioanalysis to support the drug development program.