Sanofi and CD&R finalise Opella deal, launching global consumer healthcare giant
Ella Day | May 6, 2025 | News story | Mergers and Acquisitions | (OTC & VMS), Clayton, Clayton Dubilier & Rice (CD&R), Corporate, M&A, Opella, Sanofi, agreement
Sanofi and Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R) have officially closed the sale of a controlling 50% stake in Opella, Sanofi’s consumer healthcare division, positioning Opella as a new independent leader in the global consumer health space. The deal brings Sanofi approximately €10bn in net cash proceeds. Sanofi retains a 48.2% share in Opella, with Bpifrance holding 1.8% and joining the board.
The transaction marks a significant step in Sanofi’s transformation into a pure-play biopharma company, sharpening its focus on research and the development of innovative medicines and vaccines.
Opella, now operating independently under CD&R’s stewardship, has a portfolio of brands including Allegra, Doliprane and Dulcolax. Currently, it is a leading global business in the over-the-counter and vitamins, minerals and supplements market (OTC & VMS),
Julie Van Ongevalle, CEO of Opella, described the moment as “an exciting milestone in Opella’s journey”, signalling the company’s readiness to scale innovation and global impact.
Head of European healthcare at CD&R, Eric Rouzier, said: “We are committed to supporting Opella’s continued development, both in France and abroad.”
Sanofi’s CEO Paul Hudson expressed confidence in Opella’s future, calling the move “the beginning of a promising journey” for the newly independent consumer healthcare champion.
Ella Day
6/5/25
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