The PolyPeptide Group has announced that the acquisition of the peptides business and operations of Lonza in Braine-l’Alleud has been completed.

With approximately 280 employees, the Braine facility is a centre focused on peptide chemical development and manufacturing within Lonza. The acquisition will enhance PolyPeptide’s manufacturing capacity and capabilities and will enable seamless support for its broad portfolio as many products progress toward regulatory approval and commercial supply.

The Braine facility will provide immediate access to additional large-scale capacity in synthesis, purification, and isolation of peptides, while PolyPeptide’s existing and complementary portfolio of late-stage products offers opportunities for synergies and continued growth for the company.

Chief executive officer (CEO) of the PolyPeptide Group Jane Salik said: "The addition of Lonza’s Braine facility to PolyPeptide is a great fit and will offer customers an even more comprehensive range of services for every stage of development."

"With this acquisition, we will be expanding our capacity to meet the needs of customers who demand the highest quality products with the most robust, scalable, and cost-efficient peptide manufacturing processes at every scale. This means we can provide even greater value to our global base of customers."

Both PolyPeptide and Lonza have long and distinguished histories in peptide manufacturing. Lonza acquired the Braine peptide business in 2006 from UCB, while PolyPeptide’s corporate roots in peptide therapeutics dates back to the 1950s. Both companies became successful in peptide manufacturing by building excellent reputations for quality, service, and good manufacturing practice (GMP) support.

The acquisition will not affect on-going activities at the Belgian facility and the integration process is expected to be seamless to customers. PolyPeptide Group announced that a harmonisation of procedures will be implemented in the coming months to ensure consistency, continuity, and quality within its expanded Group.

With this acquisition, the PolyPeptide Group will employ close to 800 people worldwide, with GMP facilities in the US (Torrance and San Diego, California), France (Strasbourg), India (Ambernath), Belgium (Braine-D’Alleud), and Sweden (Malmo).

Financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed.