Germany’s STADA to acquire FERN’s vitamin C portfolio

German generic drugs manufacturer STADA Group is acquiring the vitamin C portfolio of FERN Inc. in a bid to expand its presence in the Asia-Pacific region.

In a statement, the STADA Group said it is set to acquire FERN’c vitamin C range, consisting of FERN-C and children’s supplement FERN-C Kidz and Kiddimin.

“After having formally launched STADA Philippines, we are now fully enabled to execute our growth ambitions in this market as well. The acquisition of FERN will help us to succeed,” STADA CEO Peter Goldschmidt said.

“The acquisition of these products is in line with our strategy to strengthen our portfolio with well-established consumer healthcare brands and also expand in selected emerging markets,” he added.

STADA has been present in the Philippines through Croma Medic Inc., which was acquired by the group in early 2000 and renamed STADA Philippines.

The acquisition of FERN’s vitamin C brands, STRADA said, will boost its vision to become “trusted partner that provides high-quality, holistic care for the people.”

“With both STADA and FERN carrying heritage, we will be able to provide better health for Filipinos,” STADA Asia Pacific managing director Gary Clark said.

STADA Philippines general manager Sharmaine Abarientos said that with FERN’s addition to its portfolio, the drug manufacturer is seen to establish a strong consumer healthcare platform to provide better health for Filipinos.

“With our successful portfolio expansion activities, we are able to offer quality medicines at reasonable prices, across all segments of healthcare; specialty, generics and consumer health,” Abarientos said. — BM, GMA News