Stada is exploring a potential acquisition of Cooper Consumer Health from its private equity owners in a deal that could value the business at around €6bn, according to a report by Bloomberg citing people familiar with the matter.
The German pharmaceuticals group, which is backed by CapVest, has reportedly held preliminary discussions regarding a transaction.
Cooper, majority owned by CVC Capital Partners, operates across consumer health and personal care, with brands spanning hygiene, wellness and over-the-counter products. The asset may also attract interest from other private equity buyers, according to the report.
The discussions come as Stada looks to expand through acquisitions following a period of strong performance. Earlier this year, Chief Executive Peter Goldschmidt said the company had capacity to pursue meaningful M&A opportunities across consumer health markets without geographic constraints.
The potential transaction would add to signs of improving European private equity exit activity, with private equity-backed company sales in the region increasing this year as sponsors seek to return capital to investors. CapVest agreed to acquire control of Stada from Bain Capital and Cinven last year in a transaction valuing the business at approximately €10bn including debt.
