Sanofi, CD&R partner to support Opella’s growth in consumer health care

Sanofi and CD&R are joining forces to fuel Opella’s ambitions as a French-headquartered, global consumer healthcare champion. Sanofi and CD&R have entered exclusive negotiations for the potential sale and purchase of a 50% controlling stake in Opella. This new step in Opella’s journey paves the way for the creation of a new, standalone leader in consumer healthcare, while supporting Sanofi’s strategy and increased focus on innovative medicines and vaccines, the company said.

Sanofi would remain a significant shareholder backing Opella in its future growth and path to independence. Together, CD&R and Sanofi will support Opella’s growth strategy as a pure-play, global and fast-moving consumer healthcare company, Sanofi said. Bpifrance is expected to participate as a minority shareholder with a c.2% stake.

Headquartered in France, Opella employs over 11,000 people, operates in 100 countries with 13 best-in-class and strategic manufacturing sites and four science and innovation development centers. 

[Related: Sanofi in discussions to sell a controlling stake in Opella]

With a portfolio of iconic brands, such as Allegra, Doliprane and Dulcolax, Opella is already the third-largest business worldwide in the over-the-counter and vitamins, minerals & supplements market, serving more than half a billion consumers worldwide. Opella operates in a fast-growing industry driven by sustainable long-term trends, such as an aging population, rising income levels and greater health and well-being awareness, Sanofi noted. 

The valuation of Opella is based on an enterprise value of c.€16 billion, corresponding to c.14 times 2024 estimated EBITDA. The offer from CD&R is binding and fully financed. By remaining a significant shareholder in Opella, Sanofi would retain a part of the future value creation of the company. The proposed transaction is subject to finalization of definitive agreements, completion of the appropriate social processes and subject to customary statutory approvals. The anticipated closing of the transaction would be in Q2 2025 at the earliest.

CD&R has a track record of partnering with corporates and management teams to support businesses’ growth and development, leveraging the firm’s global reach, deep industry expertise and broad network of operating partners and advisors, Sanofi noted.

CD&R has a long history of investment in Europe and the firm’s experience building French national champions and supporting French jobs goes back more than 20 years and includes successful partnerships with, and investments in, Rexel, Spie, BUT/Conforama and Socotec, Sanofi said.

[Read more: A Force for Change: Sanofi Consumer Healthcare North America is B Corp Certified]