Mercury Pharma acquired by Cinven

Mercury Pharma has announced that European private equity firm Cinven has agreed to take ownership of the company from HgCapital.

The international speciality pharmaceutical company, which was created from the consolidation of Goldshield Group and its Forley and Antigen affiliates earlier this year, has been acquired with regard to its strong UK and international growth prospects.

Headquartered in Croydon, the firm markets niche and branded pharmaceuticals across more than 50 countries, with 15 new products being launched in 2011/12.

Over the past two years, the organisation has been streamlined to refocus on its core speciality pharmaceutical products and has generated strong growth in recent years, despite challenging trading conditions.

Its portfolio includes treatments for thyroid disorders, pain, arthritis, pulmonary arterial hypertension and cardiovascular diseases, as well as a number of anaesthesia products.

John Beighton, chief executive officer of Mercury Pharma, said: "We are delighted to be partnering with Cinven who, with their experience in both healthcare and buy-and-build strategies, will provide invaluable expertise and investment as we enter this next phase of growth."