Life science firm boosts criminal justice sector with acquisition
Orchid Cellmark (Cellmark Forensic Services) has been acquired by Wolverhampton-based Eurofins Scientific Group marking a boost for the criminal justice forensic sector.
Cellmark, one of the UK’s largest forensic analysis providers for the police and the leading DNA paternity testing laboratory, offers a wide range of services, including crime scene forensic analysis, specialist laboratory testing, and support for criminal investigations.
The company also provides forensic reviews for defence cases and conducts DNA relationship and drug and alcohol testing for government departments, legal professionals, and the public.
As Cellmark and Eurofins Forensic Services hold significant shares of the UK forensic testing market, the acquisition required clearance from the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA).
The merger is expected to deliver synergies and growth opportunities for both companies, strengthening the forensic science industry and enhancing stability within the sector.
The deal was brokered by Northampton’s corporate finance specialists Watersheds.
John Stopher, partner at Watersheds, said: “The process of gaining CMA approval for the transaction to be cleared is uncommon for a deal of this size, so this was a fairly unusual one for us. Whilst this did add another layer of complexity to the deal, we were very pleased to have the acquisition approved and so deliver an outcome that not only suited both the buyer and seller, but also fortified the forensic sector as a whole and its contribution to the criminal justice system.
“Unusual situations often present additional challenges, so it was important for us to ensure that the shareholders felt well-supported throughout the entire process in order to help drive a successful outcome. Throughout our time working with the shareholders, we’ve assisted with both the acquisition of PALS and the sale of Cellmark, demonstrating our ability to adapt and add value for our clients in a range of different scenarios.”
David Hartshorne, former managing director and shareholder of Cellmark said: “Watersheds is a great organisation to have on your side. They have a wealth of experience and expertise and provided valuable analysis and advice during our acquisition and subsequent business sale. In particular, we really valued their personal approach to doing business and felt very supported by the team. The Watersheds team was proactive and showed considerable tenacity and commitment to help drive both processes to successful conclusions.”
