Earlier this week, Grifols, a global pharmaceutical company headquartered in Barcelona, Spain, that specializes in plasma protein therapies, signed an acquisition agreement with Talecris, a biotherapeutic and biotechnology company based in Research Triangle Park, NC. With this agreement, Grifols acquires Talecris in a deal totaling $3.4 billion. Grifols develops and manufactures plasma-based therapies, including those used to treat bleeding disorders such as hemophilia and von Willebrand disease. Talecris Biotherapeutics develops and manufactures therapies in areas such as immunology, pulmonology, neurology and hematology.

“The combination of Grifols and Talecris will create a diversified, global provider of life-saving and life-enhancing plasma protein therapeutics built on the strong global presence of Grifols and the established position of Talecris in United States and Canada,” stated the June 7, 2010 news release.

The deal is still subject to customary closing conditions, antitrust and regulatory review, and requires approval from the shareholders of each company. The acquisition will also be vetted by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, which has the authority to block such deals. 

Source: Grifols news release dated June 7, 2010