The private equity team of international law firm Simmons & Simmons has acted for UK-based pharmaceutical services specialist Evestia Clinical on its acquisition of US-based Atlantic Research Group (ARG).
Backed by leading private equity investor and client Kester Capital, Evestia has a strong global platform, specialising in oncology, rare diseases, immunology and inflammation. The combination with ARG will create a leading independent specialist Clinical Research Organisation (CRO) operating in fast-growing international markets.
The deal will expand Evestia's global footprint in the US and broaden its therapeutic services offering to include neurology and late-stage clinical trial services. The enlarged group also gains access to enhanced technologies, improving its offering for clients.
The Simmons team was led by partner Tim Hewens, co-head of the firm's international Private Equity Cross-Border Group.
Tim Hewens commented: "This UK-US merger is a great result for both firms, creating a highly specialised CRO boasting a strong global presence in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. It has been a pleasure to support Evestia, who benefitted from the firm's private equity expertise, coupled with our deep experience in the health and life sciences (HLS) sector."
