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Ionisos acquires Stermed, a specialist in low-temperature sterilisation, with the support of Ardian

Ionisos, the leader in cold sterilisation in France and Spain, today announces the acquisition of Stermed, the French sterilisation solutions specialist, with the support of its shareholder Ardian, the independent private investment company.

Based in Civrieux d’Azergues, to the north of Lyon, Stermed specialises in low-temperature sterilisation using ethylene oxide. This highly technical and technological procedure, which requires a number of certifications, has strong growth potential, particularly driven by the medical sector. The company offers subcontracting solutions for the treatment (decontamination and sterilisation) of medical devices (surgical instruments, implants, forceps, specula, etc.) and industrial devices (laboratory equipment). The Stermed site covers 3,200 sq. m. and is equipped with four treatment units, preconditioning chambers, desorption chambers and a microbiological analysis laboratory.

Ardian has accompanied Ionisos in its development since July 2016, most notably through its external growth.

"Only a small number of companies in France currently have expertise in low-temperature sterilisation using ethylene oxide. The acquisition of Stermed reinforces our position in this promising market segment by expanding our geographic reach towards the south of France, the north being already covered by our Gien site," says Michel Gominet, president of Ionisos.

"We are very familiar with Stermed and its teams, whose know-how is recognised. This merger reinforces our technological and industrial platform. Our geographical proximity to Stermed is also a major advantage," adds Christoph Herkens, managing director of Ionisos.

"We are pleased to be joining the Ionisos group, which will enable us to continue building on our growth together, while benefiting from the Ionisos group’s expertise," explains Matthieu Reinhardt, head of the Civrieux site.

"Ionisos is pursuing its development plan. This operation fits in perfectly with our targeted acquisition strategy. The company is establishing itself as the main player in consolidation of its market in France and Europe," concludes François Jerphagnon, head of the Ardian expansion team.