Sanofi has officially completed the sale of a 50.0% controlling stake in its consumer healthcare business, Opella, to Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R). The transaction, which closed on previously disclosed terms, marks a pivotal step in Sanofi’s transformation strategy. Sanofi retains a significant 48.2% stake in Opella, while Bpifrance joins as a minority shareholder with a 1.8% stake and a seat on the Board. Sanofi received net cash proceeds of approximately €10 billion from the deal.
Sanofi Sharpens Focus as Pure-Play Biopharma
As per the Sanofi Press release, with the completion of this transaction, Sanofi positions itself fully as a pure-play biopharmaceutical company. The firm now concentrates exclusively on advancing cutting-edge research to deliver breakthrough medicines and vaccines.
Leadership Confident in Opella’s Independent Future
Paul Hudson, Chief Executive Officer of Sanofi, expressed strong confidence in Opella’s next chapter:
“We have full confidence in Opella’s future as a new independent champion. Built on the strength of its talented teams, deep consumer understanding, and international reach, Opella is perfectly positioned for long-term success. With the support of CD&R—renowned for its expertise in the consumer and healthcare sectors and its commitment to people, communities, and sustainability—Opella is ready to grow and thrive. This new chapter marks the beginning of a promising journey for a company we believe in deeply.”
CD&R to Accelerate Opella’s Growth Trajectory
Eric Rouzier, Partner and Head of European Healthcare at CD&R, highlighted the firm’s enthusiasm and long-term commitment:
“This is an exciting opportunity for CD&R to support Opella in building a French-headquartered, global consumer health champion. Opella stands out through the strength of its brands and the expertise of its people. CD&R brings complementary experience in the consumer health sector, along with operational insight and long-term capital, to help accelerate Opella’s growth. We are committed to supporting Opella’s continued development both in France and abroad and to better serving employees, consumers, and patients alike.”
Opella Ready to Lead in Fast-Growing Consumer Health Sector
Julie Van Ongevalle, President and Chief Executive Officer of Opella, shared her excitement about the company’s new era:
“Reaching this milestone is an exciting moment in Opella’s journey. Through significant transformations, we have become one of the largest global players in our sector, bringing innovation to over half a billion consumers worldwide. We are ready to unlock Opella’s full potential, drive value creation, and leverage our teams’ exceptional talent to become a leader in the fast-moving consumer healthcare space.”
A Global Player with Deep Capabilities and Iconic Brands
Headquartered in France, Opella employs more than 11,000 skilled and passionate professionals. The company operates in 100 countries, supported by 13 state-of-the-art manufacturing sites and four science and innovation development centers. Its portfolio includes trusted global brands such as Allegra, Doliprane, and Dulcolax.
Currently ranked as the third-largest player globally in the over-the-counter and vitamins, minerals & supplements (OTC & VMS) market, Opella serves over 500 million consumers worldwide.
Positioned for Long-Term Growth
Operating in a dynamic and expanding industry, Opella is well-placed to benefit from key macro trends such as population aging, rising income levels, and increased awareness of health and well-being. With strong backing and a clear vision, Opella is set to thrive as an independent global healthcare leader.
