Sartorius completes buyout of Biohit liquid handling unit

Sartorius has announced the completion of its acquisition of the liquid handling business unit of fellow life science company Biohit.

Following the successful conclusion of this deal, which was originally announced in October 2011, Sartorius has commenced integration of the new division, which is expected to greatly increase its laboratory product offering.

It will allow the company to supply equipment such as mechanical and electronic pipettes for biopharmaceutical manufacturers, complementing its existing portfolio of laboratory balances, water purification systems, moisture analysers and consumables for sample preparation.

Following the takeover, the Sartorius laboratory business will represent around one-third of the group's future sales.

Dr Joachim Kreuzburg, chief executive officer of Sartorius, said: "The liquid handling business will make an important contribution to the growth strategy of our laboratory unit."

Biohit founder Professor Osmo Suovaniemi also expressed confidence that the transfer of the business unit will position it well for future growth.