The combination of Berna and Chiron would offer complementary geographic coverage and product ranges. Novartis would also gain access to Berna’s attractive proprietary technology platforms.
A Novartis bid would be in competition with the all-share exchange offer made for Berna by the Dutch biotechnology company, Crucell NV. In order to prepare a potential competing cash offer, Novartis has been granted by Berna the opportunity to perform a due diligence investigation.
At this point in time economic terms of a potential offer for Berna have not yet been determined.
Berna Biotech develops, produces and markets vaccines and immunotherapeutics for private and public markets worldwide. The company markets its core vaccine products in the field of hepatitis B/pediatric, respiratory and travel vaccines and has a broad development pipeline.