Alvotech acquires Ivers-Lee to boost biosimilar packaging capacity

ICELAND – Alvotech, a leading biotech company, has acquired Ivers-Lee Group, a Switzerland-based specialist in pharmaceutical assembly and packaging. 

The acquisition, announced recently, aims to enhance Alvotech’s capacity to meet rising demand for its biosimilar medicines, particularly with three new product launches planned for 2025.

According to Alvotech, Ivers-Lee will remain a separate legal entity but will be fully integrated into its Technical Operations division. 

This includes Ivers-Lee’s expertise in autoinjector packages, pre-filled syringes, safety devices, and vial packaging. 

The Burgdorf, Switzerland facility, established in 1947, is Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)-licensed and approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), ensuring high-quality standards for international markets. 

Additionally, Ivers-Lee operates a business unit in Lörrach, Germany, further expanding its operational reach.

Robert Wessman, Alvotech’s founder, chairman, and CEO, emphasized the long-standing partnership between the two companies. 

“Ivers-Lee has been a trusted partner for several years. Their integration into our operations provides the flexibility and capacity needed to meet growing global demand for our biosimilars while maintaining exceptional quality,” Wessman stated.

Peter Schüpbach, managing director of Ivers-Lee, will join Alvotech’s Technical Operations senior leadership team while continuing to lead Ivers-Lee. 

In a statement, Schüpbach highlighted the benefits of the acquisition, saying, “Alvotech brings financial strength and growth opportunities that we, as a family-founded company, could not achieve alone. This move ensures stability for our employees and the company’s future.”

Ivers-Lee will continue to serve its existing international clients, offering contract manufacturing services such as blister and stick-pack packaging, clinical supplies, and Qualified Person (QP) services from its Lörrach unit. 

In related industry developments, a report by Pharmaceutical Technology noted that Schreiner MediPharm recently launched a Smart Syringe Box to enhance tracking for clinical trial syringes, while TekniPlex Healthcare opened a new facility to support its Barrier Protection Systems. 

Subscribe to our email newsletters that provide busy executives like you with the latest news insights and trends from Africa and the World. SUBSCRIBE HERE