Thermo Fisher Scientific signed a definitive agreement to acquire Alfa Aesar, a global manufacturer of research chemicals and part of Johnson Matthey for approximately $405 million in cash. Based in Heysham, U.K., Alfa Aesar has 480 employees and operates in research hubs in the U.S., Germany, China, South Korea, and India. The business generated sales of approximately of $125 million in 2014.

“The acquisition of Alfa Aesar enhances our existing portfolio of chemicals, solvents and reagents to support virtually every laboratory application from research, to drug discovery and development, to production,” said Marc N. Casper, president and CEO of Thermo Fisher Scientific. “In addition, customers will benefit from greater access to these products through our extensive global commercial reach.”

The transaction is expected to be completed by the end of 2015. Alfa Aesar will be integrated into Thermo Fisher’s lab products and services segment.

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