International law firm Hill Dickinson has advised Celnor Group, a provider of critical data for compliance, safety and sustainability purposes, on the acquisition of Drayton Animal Health. The deal sees Drayton Animal Health become the first member of Celnor Group’s life sciences division.
Celnor Group is backed by private equity house Inflexion, whose industry-leading expertise in consolidating the TICC (testing, inspection, certification, and compliance) market aims to build the business with an ambitious acquisition strategy.
Established in 2007, Drayton Animal Health is a UK-based Contract Research Organisation dedicated to the health and welfare of farmed animals and the safety of food. Drayton Animal Health will continue to operate under its current name, with its leadership team remaining in place to ensure a seamless transition and continued focus on customer needs.
The past 12 months have seen Celnor Group embark on a hugely ambitious and successful growth strategy. We are delighted to have supported Celnor CEO Simon Parrington and the team throughout that period. Drayton Animal Health marks an exciting move into the life sciences space and we look forward to supporting Celnor Group as it continues to grow its portfolio.Graeme Anderson
Partner
Simon Parrington, chief executive officer of Celnor Group said: “Drayton Animal Health is another great addition to our Group, offering different but complementary services to several of our other businesses. As our first Life Sciences division member, Drayton marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the Group’s growth. I look forward to investing in them and seeing them thrive alongside our other businesses.”
David Mkhitarian and Graeme Anderson of Hill Dickinson’s Private Equity team led on the provision of legal advice to Celnor Group, with assistance from trainee solicitor Paula Mas Alvarez.
Graeme Anderson said: “The past 12 months have seen Celnor Group embark on a hugely ambitious and successful growth strategy. We are delighted to have supported Celnor CEO Simon Parrington and the team throughout that period. Drayton Animal Health marks an exciting move into the life sciences space and we look forward to supporting Celnor Group as it continues to grow its portfolio.”
Mark Leyland, corporate finance director at RSM, led on the provision of financial and tax due diligence support in relation to the acquisition.