Sanofi sells controlling stake of consumer healthcare business Opella

Paris: Sanofi has announced the closing of the sale to CD&R of a 50.0% controlling stake of its consumer healthcare business Opella. Sanofi retains a significant shareholding of Opella with a 48.2% stake. Bpifrance will own a 1.8% stake in Opella and will join the Board.

The transaction was completed on the terms previously disclosed. Sanofi has received total net cash proceeds of around €10 billion.

Paul Hudson Chief Executive Officer, Sanofi said, “We have full confidence in Opella’s future as a new independent champion. Built on the strength of its talented teams, deep consumer understanding, and international reach, Opella is perfectly positioned for long-term success. With the support of CD&R—renowned for its expertise in the consumer and healthcare sectors and its commitment to people, communities, and sustainability, Opella is ready to grow and thrive. This new chapter marks the beginning of a promising journey for a company we believe in deeply.”

Eric Rouzier Partner and Head of European Healthcare, CD&R said, “This is an exciting opportunity for CD&R to support Opella in building a French headquartered, global consumer health champion. Opella stands out through the strength of its brands and the expertise of its people. CD&R brings complementary experience in the consumer health sector, along with operational insight and long-term capital, to help accelerate Opella’s growth. We are committed to supporting Opella’s continued development, both in France and abroad and to better serving employees, consumers, and patients alike.”

Julie Van Ongevalle President and Chief Executive Officer, Opella stated, “Reaching this milestone is an exciting moment in Opella's journey. Through significant transformations, we have become one of the largest global players in our sector, bringing innovation to over half a billion consumers worldwide. We are ready to unlock Opella’s full potential, drive value creation, and leverage our teams' exceptional talent to become a leader in the fast-moving consumer healthcare space.”

Headquartered in France, Opella employs over 11,000 people, operates in 100 countries with 13 strategic manufacturing sites and four science and innovation development centers. It has a portfolio of iconic brands, such as Allegra, Doliprane, and Dulcolax. 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.