German chemicals and life‑science group Merck KGaA announced a cash purchase of US biotech supplier Bio‑Techne for $11.3 billion. The transaction marks Merck’s largest acquisition since 2012 and instantly adds a leading provider of protein‑based reagents to its portfolio. The move follows Merck’s recent push to broaden its presence in the United States market.

The deal gives Merck a foothold in the fast‑growing market for research‑grade antibodies, enzymes and cell‑culture tools, segments where Bio‑Techne generated roughly €2 billion in annual sales. Combined with Merck’s existing diagnostics and laboratory‑automation businesses, the merger creates a more complete end‑to‑end offering for academic and industrial customers worldwide, strengthening cross‑selling opportunities.

Merck shares rose about 2 % after the news, while analysts noted that financing the deal with a mix of cash and debt could pressure the company’s balance sheet. Integration risk remains, but the acquisition positions Merck to capture higher margins in the biotech supplies segment and diversify revenue beyond its traditional pharma base, delivering a clearer growth path.

Regulators in both Germany and the United States have cleared the transaction, clearing the way for closing in early 2025.