United Drug purchases marketing firm InforMed

United Drug has moved to expand its range of services via the takeover of the Macclesfield-based communications group InforMed.

The company has acquired the entire issued share capital of InforMed for a total consideration of 11.4 million pounds, financed from its existing debt facilities and internal resources.

In doing so, it takes control of a firm which employs 80 people and provides communications and consultancy services – including medical writing, market research and sales training – to a wide range of healthcare firms.

United Drug will incorporate the business into its existing contract sales and marketing division and believes the move will help it to broaden its UK and US services capability.

Liam FitzGerald, United Drug's chief executive, said: "InforMed has an excellent management team and I am delighted to welcome them to the group."

According to the company's most recent financial report in May 2010, United Drug has enjoyed a strong 2009-10 year so far and expects profits to remain broadly level with those of 2008-09.