3M Completes Aearo Acquisition, Buys Quebec Infection Control Firm
3M made two announcements Tuesday of interest to the safety community: It completed its acquisition of Aearo, the Indianapolis maker of PPE for hearing, vision, and other types of proection; and wholly owned subsidiary 3M Canada has acquired Les Entreprises Solumed Inc., a Quebec supplier of medical products designed to prevent infections in operating rooms and hospitals.
Solumed's chlorhexidine gluconate and alcohol-based line of products complement 3M's infection prevention offerings for patients and health care workers, the parent company said. "The addition of Solumed positions 3M for growth in the fast-growing segment of intravenous site care and in preoperative care and hand hygiene, where CHG-based products are gaining momentum," said Chuck Kummeth, vice president and general manager of the 3M Medical Division. Solumed's products include antiseptic wipes, swabsticks, surgical scrub brush-sponges, and antiseptic gels.
"The acquisition of Solumed will enhance our local presence, expand our business, and help us to better address our customers’ emerging needs in these markets,” said Jim McSheffrey, president and general manager, 3M Canada. Solumed employs about 25 people and will remain in Quebec as a separate subsidiary of 3M Canada. Solumed's products are available in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and Singapore.