Microsize and Schedio Group to Acquire Lonza's Swiss Micronization Facility

In a significant move that reshapes the landscape of particle engineering services, U.S.-based CDMO Microsize has partnered with Switzerland's Schedio Group to acquire Lonza's micronization facility in Monteggio, Switzerland. The deal, expected to close in the first quarter of 2024, marks a strategic expansion for Microsize and underscores the ongoing evolution in the pharmaceutical manufacturing sector.

Strategic Expansion and Industry Implications

The acquisition of the Monteggio facility, known as Micro-Macinazione (Mic Mac), represents a critical step in Microsize's ambition to establish an integrated European-American network for advanced particle engineering. This move comes on the heels of Microsize's own emergence from Lonza's divestiture of its Quakertown, Pennsylvania plant in 2022.

TJ Higley, CEO of Microsize, emphasized the strategic importance of the deal, stating, "The acquisition agreement represents a critical step in building Microsize into a global leader in particle engineering. Mic Mac complements our U.S. operations perfectly, technically, operationally, and culturally."

The partnership between Microsize and Schedio Group aims to leverage their complementary strengths. Microsize brings its CDMO expertise, while Schedio contributes its portfolio of process equipment and containment technologies. Together, they plan to invest in Mic Mac to enhance its capabilities and accelerate modernization.

Industry Trends and Lonza's Strategic Moves

This transaction reflects broader trends in the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry, where companies are increasingly focusing on specialized services and technologies. Lonza's decision to divest its micronization facilities aligns with its recent acquisition of French rapid microbiology testing firm Redberry SAS, indicating a shift in focus towards faster product releases while maintaining safety and regulatory standards.

The series of transactions involving Lonza, Microsize, and now Schedio Group highlights the dynamic nature of the CDMO landscape, with companies continually adjusting their portfolios to meet evolving industry demands and capitalize on growth opportunities in niche areas of pharmaceutical manufacturing.