bioMerieux will become Quidel’s primary distributor for its QuickVue rapid diagnostic tests outside the US and the two companies intend to co-develop new rapid tests using Quidel’s rapid test development capability and bioMerieux’s expertise and extensive library of antibodies and antigens. The companies plan to especially leverage their mutual expertise in the area of infectious diseases.
bioMerieux will be the exclusive distributor of all of Quidel’s current QuickVue rapid diagnostic tests in all countries with the exception of the US, Japan and Scandinavia, starting in May 2008. Branding for these products is expected to reflect the strength and market power of both companies.