Chiron integrates Powderject

Chiron expands presence in UK following integration of Powderject

Building on its long established position as a leader in the global vaccines market, Chiron Vaccines today achieved another major milestone following its acquisition of UK vaccine company PowderJect, with the formal launch of the newly combined organisation. The enlarged business, which has moved its global headquarters to Oxford, UK, and has one of its major manufacturing facilities in Liverpool, is now branded Chiron Vaccines. With the integration complete, the new organisation is now the world's fifth largest vaccines company and the second largest manufacturer of flu vaccines. Sales for the combined organisation amounted to over US$600m in 2002.

Commenting on the launch of the new organisation, John Lambert, President of Chiron Vaccines, said: 'I am extremely pleased with the rapid progress we have made in integrating PowderJect into the Chiron Vaccines group. Strategically the fit is perfect, with complementary products and geographic operations giving the "new" Chiron Vaccines a solid foundation for future growth.'

'As the UK's leading vaccine manufacturer we are highly committed to building on our strong presence here. We are making significant investments to expand our production facilities in Liverpool, and many of the company's senior management team, including myself, have relocated to our new HQ in Oxford. In addition to our physical presence, we are also committed to public health in the UK. Each year we produce vaccines that protect millions of Britons against serious diseases. Building on this important work, we intend to add a number of new vaccines to the range we offer our UK customers.'