Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies has been announced as the new name for the former Merck BioManufacturing Network (known as MSD BioManufacturing Network outside the US and Canada) following completion of its acquisition today by FUJIFILM Corporation of Japan.

As previously announced, the acquisition comprises the facilities located in Billingham, UK (MSD Biologics (UK), formerly Avecia Biologics) and Research Triangle Park, NC, US (Diosynth RTP).

Yuzo Toda, general manager of Pharmaceutical Products Division, FUJIFILM Corporation, said: “We are delighted to complete the addition of this business to Fujifilm’s growing portfolio of healthcare and lifescience businesses. We intend that Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies will lead the global biologics CMO industry through continuous innovation of technologies, service delivery and quality, contributing to the enhancement of the quality of life of people worldwide. Key to this is the very talented and experienced workforce at both Billingham and RTP, backed by world-leading technologies and first-class manufacturing assets.”

Stephen Spearman, PhD, MBA, president, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, RTP, US, said: “This move to Fujifilm is very exciting for us. Working even more closely with our colleagues in Billingham, UK, will help create clear focus on our third-party contract development and manufacturing services for the biopharmaceutical industry and provide us with a strong platform for growth.”

Steve Bagshaw, managing director, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, Billingham, UK, said: “This transition of ownership to Fujifilm, and closer collaboration with our US colleagues in North Carolina will truly position us as a world-leading contract biologics development and manufacturing business. We look forward to working with both existing and new customers to help bring their drug developments to market.”