Gosport based, Wickham Micro has completed the acquisition of Medical Engineering Technologies (MET), a medical device testing laboratory based in Dover.
The firm, backed by Limerston Capital, is focused on strategically expanding its capabilities across US and Europe, with a particular focus on Germany.
Founded 25 years ago, MET provides design validation testing and medical and combination device batch release testing. The business is recognised as a world leading Contract Research Organisation for Needle Injection Systems and pre-filled syringe testing and works with medical device and pharmaceutical companies in over 20 countries across Africa, Asia, Australasia, Europe, and the USA.
MET’s services include biological evaluation plans, human factors studies, packaging validation, physical testing, chemical characterisation, extractables and leachables, biocompatibility studies, and toxicity risk analysis. The addition of MET will enable the group to provide clients with full-service validation, release, and medical device testing.
As part of the acquisition, investment will be directed to supporting the existing team and expanding capabilities in line with customer demands. MET founder, Mark Turner will take the role of director, medical devices and Mark Hammond who was appointed Wickham Micro’s CEO earlier this year will have oversight of the group. This further acquisition sets a platform for growth in the medical device and pharmaceutical testing markets and evidence of Limerston Capital’s commitment to support Wickham Micro’s plans.
Mark Hammond, CEO Wickham Micro, said: “The opportunity to work with the team at MET represents a significant milestone for the wider group which is now better placed to support customers, bringing their medical devices and combination products to market more quickly. MET is firmly established and has an excellent reputation, positioning it well for growth. With complimentary services to Wickham Micro, we are creating a platform for development and providing a gateway into Europe, where 20% of MET’s sales originate from.”
Mark Turner, founder and Director, Medical Devices for MET, added: “It’s an exciting time for our business. I have been proud to lead MET to date, and with the support of Mark and the expertise of the wider Wickham Micro team, I am looking forward to exploring how we can develop our services and reach, benefiting our clients and helping us to reach our full potential.”
Now, with a focus on Germany, Wickham Micro will strengthen its foothold in Europe while exploring opportunities in the US to facilitate further expansion.
Martim Avillez, founding partner, Limerston Capital, said: “The acquisition of Wickham Micro, swiftly followed by the addition of MET clearly demonstrates our ambitions in this space. We have full confidence in Wickham Micro and MET’s ability to grow in the medical device and pharmaceutical testing markets, which continue to flourish. We are now keen to explore further opportunities in Europe and the US, with laboratories we can work collaboratively with.”
Avonhurst provided legal services for the acquisition and RSM proved accounting services.
