Darmstadt, Germany & Minneapolis, USA — Merck KGaA, a global science and technology company, has announced a landmark agreement to acquire U.S.-based life sciences company Bio-Techne Corporation in a transaction valued at approximately $11.3 billion. The acquisition marks one of Merck’s largest strategic investments in the life science sector in more than a decade and represents a major move to strengthen its position in advanced research technologies, biotechnology solutions, and pharmaceutical innovation. 

Under the agreement, Merck will acquire Bio-Techne at $73 per share in cash, representing an enterprise value of approximately $11.3 billion (€9.9 billion). The offer reflects a significant premium compared with Bio-Techne’s recent trading valuation, highlighting Merck’s confidence in the long-term growth potential of the company’s technology portfolio and market position. The transaction remains subject to regulatory approvals and approval by Bio-Techne shareholders. 

Founded in the United States, Bio-Techne has developed into one of the world’s leading providers of life science research tools, analytical technologies, and specialty reagents. The company serves pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, academic institutions, and diagnostic laboratories with a broad portfolio covering proteins, antibodies, cell biology solutions, spatial biology platforms, and precision research technologies. Its product ecosystem includes well-known brands and platforms supporting drug discovery, molecular research, and next-generation diagnostics. 

For Merck, the acquisition represents a strategic expansion of its Life Science business, particularly its capabilities in high-growth fields such as multi-omics, spatial biology, cell and gene therapy, protein analysis, and advanced laboratory workflows. By integrating Bio-Techne’s technologies with Merck’s existing global infrastructure, the company aims to provide researchers and pharmaceutical manufacturers with more comprehensive solutions across the entire scientific value chain — from early-stage discovery to commercial production.

“Bio-Techne is a strong strategic fit that supports our ambition to deliver innovative products and solutions across the life science industry,” Merck said. The company believes the combination will accelerate growth opportunities by bringing together complementary technologies, global customer networks, and scientific expertise. 

The deal also reflects broader changes taking place in the global life sciences industry. As pharmaceutical research becomes increasingly dependent on advanced analytical tools, precision diagnostics, and integrated laboratory platforms, major scientific equipment and reagent companies are seeking scale through mergers and acquisitions. The demand for technologies supporting personalized medicine, biologics development, and cell-based therapies has created new opportunities for companies capable of offering complete research ecosystems. 

Analysts noted that the Bio-Techne acquisition follows Merck’s previous expansion strategy in life sciences, including its major acquisition of Sigma-Aldrich, and demonstrates the company’s continued commitment to strengthening laboratory technology and research infrastructure. The transaction is expected to enhance Merck’s competitive position against other global life science suppliers by adding new capabilities in critical research areas.

Bio-Techne’s global operations, scientific workforce, and manufacturing capabilities will become part of Merck’s broader life science platform after completion of the transaction. The combined organization is expected to create new opportunities for collaboration between researchers, biotechnology companies, and pharmaceutical manufacturers worldwide.

The acquisition of Bio-Techne highlights a growing trend toward consolidation in the life science tools market. As scientific research becomes more complex and technology-driven, companies are increasingly investing billions of dollars to secure access to advanced platforms, specialized expertise, and innovative solutions. Merck’s $11.3 billion investment signals its ambition to become a stronger global partner for the next generation of biomedical research and healthcare innovation. 

With the Bio-Techne acquisition, Merck is positioning itself at the center of the rapidly expanding life science technology ecosystem, aiming to accelerate scientific breakthroughs and support the future development of medicines, diagnostics, and biotechnology solutions worldwide.