Distributor VWR International May Be Sold
West Chester, Pa.-based safety and laboratory distributor VWR International may soon be sold, after the company's March 12 announcement that it has retained Goldman Sachs & Co. and Banc of America Securities LLC to explore strategic options. The company is owned by Clayton, Dubilier & Rice, Inc., a private equity firm that bought it from Merck KGaA for $1.65 billion in 2004.
"As this process moves forward, we remain committed to maintaining our strong relationships with our customers and suppliers and to the continued growth of our business," President and CEO John Ballbach said in the company's press release. VWR said it does not expect to disclose further developments regarding the process until the review is completed.
VWR is a leading distributor in the global research laboratory industry with worldwide sales above $3 billion. It distributes chemicals, equipment and instruments, protective apparel, safety products from several well-known manufacturers, and other products and supplies. For information, phone 800-932-5000 or visit www.vwr.com.