French pharmaceutical giant Sanofi announced it has entered negotiations with private equity firm Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R) for the potential sale of a 50% controlling stake in its consumer healthcare business, Opella.
Any agreement resulting from these discussions would be subject to the completion of necessary social processes, according to Sanofi. The company indicated that further updates on the potential separation of Opella will be provided when a decision is reached.
Opella, headquartered in France, employs over 11,000 people and operates in 100 countries. It manages 13 manufacturing sites and four research and innovation centers.
With a portfolio of 100 leading brands—including Allegra, Doliprane, Novanight, Icy Hot, and Dulcolax—Opella is the world’s third-largest company in the over-the-counter and vitamins, minerals, and supplements market, serving more than half a billion consumers worldwide.
The move aligns with Sanofi’s strategy to focus on innovative medicines and vaccines. Opella already operates as a standalone business unit within Sanofi, complete with dedicated resources for research and development, production, digital initiatives, and its own sustainability roadmap.
In 2023, Opella achieved a sales growth of 6.3% at constant exchange rates.
Sanofi is an innovative global healthcare company dedicated to transforming the practice of medicine.
The company provides potentially life-changing treatment options and life-saving vaccines to millions of people globally, with sustainability and social responsibility at the core of its ambitions. Sanofi is listed on Euronext Paris (SAN) and NASDAQ (SNY).
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