Sanofi has agreed to sell a 50% controlling stake in its consumer healthcare business, Opella, to CD&R, an investment firm. 

Sanofi had first announced that it was in negotiations to sell its controlling stake in Opella to CD&R last October (October 2024). Following completion of required social and corporate procedures, Sanofi and CD&R announced this week (February 19, 2024) that they have signed a share purchase agreement to proceed with the sale.  

Closing of the deal, which remains subject to obtaining customary regulatory approvals, is expected to take place in the second quarter of 2025 at the earliest, according to Sanofi.

The sale price of Sanofi’s stake was not disclosed, Sanofi is expected to remain a significant shareholder in Opella, with Opella becoming a pure-play and stand-alone consumer healthcare company. Bpifrance (Banque Publique D’Investissement), a French public sector investment bank, is expected to participate as a minority shareholder with an approximate 2% stake.  

Headquartered in France, Opella operates in 100 countries with 13 manufacturing sites and four science and innovation development centers. Its product portfolio includes over-the-counter products, such as Allegra, Doliprane, and Dulcolax. 

Source: Sanofi