The proposed sale of the Saint-Herblon (France, Loire-Atlantique) production site had been announced in October 2017 following the presentation of Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health strategic orientations. On this occasion, the group had affirmed its strategy to focus on advanced and preventive animal healthcare. Saint-Herblon mainly produces generics and antibiotics for livestock, under the Coophavet brand.
 
Boehringer Ingelheim had identified a strong buyer in order to offer a sustainable future for the site and its employees. The selected buyer is an independent and family-owned Dutch company that develops, produces and distributes veterinary products 100% dedicated to livestock.
 
Dopharma is a growing player on the market, already distributing in more than 50 countries. It employs 165 people and has 2 production sites in Europe. Saint-Herblon and Coophavet will therefore represent a major part of its activity.
 
“With the acquisition of the Saint-Herblon production site, we are establishing our presence in France and we will benefit from an addition to our portfolio and distribution possibilities that is fully in line with our strategy. We intend to capitalize on employees’ know-how to keep growing together,” explains Wijnand de Bruijn, General Manager External Affairs and President of Animal Health Europe.
 
“I am convinced that this project will offer a solid foundation for the future to the site and its employees. Indeed, we will collaborate with Dopharma Saint-Herblon that will produce some of our specialized products during the coming years.” adds Erick Lelouche, President of Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health in France.
 
The sale should be completed by the end of Q1 2019, after the legal and consultation process is completed.