Smith and Nephew acquires Plus

Smith and Nephew has announced that it has completed the acquisition of Plus Orthopaedics Holding (Plus).

The acquisition means that Smith and Nephew is now the fourth-biggest orthopaedics company in the world, with a 12 per cent market share.

“Through the addition of Plus, Smith and Nephew becomes an even more competitive company, with a balanced presence across [research and development], manufacturing, sales and marketing throughout the US, Europe and Asia,” said David Illingworth, the chief executive officer of Smith and Nephew from July 1st.

According to Mr Illingworth, the purchase of Plus by Smith and Nephew will mean that more patients will be helped to “regain their lives” thanks to the firm’s increased product range, larger marketing team and greater reach around the world.

One of the main areas where Smith and Nephew will increase its presence is Asia, and more specifically China, where Plus manufacturing facilities are currently located.

Smith and Nephew has 8,800 employees worldwide, across 31 countries that it is active in. It generates annual sales in the region of $2.8 billion.

Plus was founded in Switzerland in 1991 and employs around 850 people worldwide.