Merz Pharma Group has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Anteis S.A., a Swiss company that specializes in the development, manufacture, and commercialization of medical devices in the area of aesthetics. With products available in more than 90 countries on five continents, Anteis has been recognized as an aesthetics leader with a reputation for innovation and a strong focus on research and development.

“The acquisition of Anteis by Merz is a unique opportunity to strengthen our presence in aesthetic medicine by bringing innovative solutions to doctors and patients,” said Philip Burchard, CEO of Merz Pharma Group, in a statement. “Anteis brings substantial additions to Merz in terms of products, talent, geographic presence and manufacturing capabilities, and our two portfolios complement each other perfectly.” The acquisition of Anteis strengthens Merz's market position in the field of aesthetics and reflects the Company's strategy to establish itself as a global leader in medical and aesthetic dermatology.

“This significant transaction represents Merz's continued investment in the aesthetics space,” said Bill Humphries, President and CEO of Merz North America. “Moreover, the acquisition of Anteis aligns with our overall growth strategy of coupling strong in-house R&D with thoughtful acquisitions that complement our current product portfolios.”

Anteis is responsible for the development and manufacture of the Belotero family of products, including Belotero Balance. As the exclusive distributor of Belotero Balance since its approval in the U.S. in 2011, Merz has already collaborated successfully with Anteis for several years. “Belotero Balance has already experienced tremendous success in the U.S. aesthetics space, and this acquisition provides a clear path for us to bring additional Belotero products to market here in North America,” said Jim Hartman, Vice President and Head of U.S. Aesthetics/OTC.

This acquisition follows Merz Pharma Group's recent acquisition of Neocutis S.A. and its line of physician-dispensed topical skin care products. “Adding the expertise and portfolio of Anteis strengthens Merz's position in the Canadian market and advances our goal of global leadership in aesthetics,“ said Bob Bennett, President and General Manager of Merz Pharma Canada, Ltd.