Contract Services

Charles River Laboratories to acquire MPI Research

Charles River Laboratories International has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire MPI Research for approximately $800 million in cash, subject to customary closing adjustments.

MPI is a premier non-clinical contract research organization (CRO) providing comprehensive testing services to biopharmaceutical and medical device companies worldwide. Acquiring MPI will enhance Charles River’s position as a leading global early-stage CRO by strengthening its ability to partner with clients across the drug discovery and development continuum.

James C. Foster, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Charles River Laboratories, commented, “In addition to meeting our disciplined acquisition criteria, MPI is an exceptional strategic fit for Charles River because it incorporates the key attributes we require in an acquisition: access to growing end markets, high-quality services, scientific expertise, and complementary capabilities. MPI’S one-million-square-foot, single-site facility in Michigan will provide needed capacity to meet current and future demand.”

“In addition to enhancing our value proposition for clients, we believe that the acquisition of MPI will generate value for shareholders, driving profitable revenue growth and non-GAAP earnings per share accretion of approximately $0.25 in 2018 and approximately $0.60 in 2019. We greatly respect MPI’s employees, its scientific capabilities, and the reputation it has built over the nearly 25 years since its founding, and look forward to welcoming MPI to the Charles River family,” Mr. Foster concluded.

The acquisition of MPI will enhance Charles River’s access to growing end markets, builds scale to meet demand, and augments its scientific bench strength, providing a compelling value proposition for both clients and shareholders.

  • Expands client base – The acquisition aligns with Charles River’s strategy to expand its biotechnology client base, its fastest-growing market segment. MPI has specialized in supporting this client segment and is recognized for its scientific expertise, flexible and responsive project management, and client service.
  • Expands service portfolio – MPI will add ototoxicity and abuse liability capabilities, and expand Charles River’s existing capabilities in general toxicology and specialty toxicology, including ophthalmology, juvenile toxicity, molecular biology, and surgery, as well as medical device testing.
  • Builds scale to meet demand – With Charles River’s legacy safety assessment network operating near optimal capacity, MPI will provide safety assessment infrastructure to support Charles River’s current demand and future growth needs.
  • Enhances growth profile – The addition of MPI is expected to enhance Charles River’s ability to achieve its long-term growth goals. The acquisition is also expected to generate attractive financial returns through profitable revenue growth and meaningful accretion to non-GAAP earnings per share.