5 December 2006 - Effective 1 December 2006, Galenica Group of Switzerland assumes control of the omega-3 and omega-6 supplement company Equazen Neutraceutical Limited through its UK subsidiary Potter's Limited. This acquisition significantly increases Galenica's presence in the British OTC market moving it into the top 15 OTC healthcare companies in the UK.
As from 1 December, the Galenica Group takes over the entire share capital of Equazen Nutraceuticals Limited, a family-owned British company with headquarters in London. Financial details of the acquisition have not been disclosed.
Equazen was founded in 1999 and has brought to market several best-selling, research-based food supplements including the international brand eyeq.. The products are based on omega-3 and omega- 6 polyunsaturated fatty acids derived from fish oils. The general health benefits of polyunsaturated fatty acids in general and the special effect of omega-3 on the cognitive function in particular have promoted the company’s growth significantly.
With the acquisition of Equazen Nutraceuticals, the Galenica Group expands its product portfolio in the UK and continues the internationalisation of its OTC business. The established international distributor networks of the Galenica Group and Equazen will ensure that the commercial potential of Equazen’s eye q and other brands can be fully exploited in the 17 markets in which a presence has already been established as well as accelerate the rollout into other markets.
The sales and marketing infrastructure of Potter’s Ltd. is significantly strengthened with the acquisition of Equazen, which moves the two combined companies into the top 15 OTC healthcare companies in the UK.
Equazen Nutraceuticals Ltd. is a leading company in the market of omega-3 and omega-6 supplements. Equazen products generated a turnover of about CHF 20 million in 2005.
Galenica is a diversified Group active throughout the healthcare market which, among other things, develops, manufactures and markets pharmaceutical products, runs pharmacies, provides logistical and database services and sets up networks. The Galenica Group enjoys a leading position in all its areas of activity - pharmaceutical manufacturing, prewholesaling, distribution, healthcare information and retailing. A large part of the Group's income is generated by international operations.