Proposed divestiture of Endpoint Clinical and Fortrea Patient Access businesses further streamlines Fortrea’s strategic focus as a pure-play contract research organization
Creates standalone best-in-class Randomization and Trial Supply Management and Patient Access solutions positioned for differentiation and growth
DURHAM, N.C., March 11, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Fortrea (NASDAQ:FTRE) (the “Company”), a leading global contract research organization (CRO), today announced it has signed a definitive agreement to divest assets relating to its Enabling Services segment, namely its Endpoint Clinical (“Endpoint”) and Fortrea Patient Access businesses, to Arsenal Capital Partners (“Arsenal”), a leading private equity firm specializing in building market-leading, technology-rich healthcare companies.
By divesting these businesses, Fortrea aims to advance the growth strategy and solutions of Endpoint and Fortrea Patient Access, positioning them for increased investment to accelerate the technology roadmap and further enhance operations to support best-in-class customer solutions and delivery. The remaining business of Fortrea will strengthen its focus on clinical development phases 1 through 4. Closing is targeted for the second quarter of 2024, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals, as well as the parties entering into certain services and operating agreements.
“Today marks a significant milestone in Fortrea’s ongoing journey, as we sharpen our focus on organically growing as a pure-play CRO, with added financial flexibility,” said Fortrea Chairman and CEO Tom Pike. “After undertaking a strategic review of our business, divesting Endpoint and Fortrea Patient Access aligns with the interests of our customers. Arsenal has extensive experience in building businesses that create systematic improvement in health outcomes, and I am confident that Endpoint and Fortrea Patient Access will be able to strengthen their market positions, nurture top-tier talent and invest in new capabilities and resources while delivering solutions that improve patients’ lives.”
“I am excited for this next chapter for Endpoint and Fortrea Patient Access,” said Sam Osman, president of Enabling Services at Fortrea, who will serve as the CEO of these businesses with Arsenal. “These businesses will be distinctively positioned to effectively manage the patient journey across clinical trials and into commercialization by driving patient access and adherence for approved therapies. Combining Arsenal’s deep investment acumen and leading industry operational expertise, I am confident the Endpoint and Fortrea Patient Access businesses are well positioned for growth and delivery of enhanced capabilities for patients and pharma sponsors. I look forward to our continued positive impact on healthcare.”
“Endpoint and Fortrea Patient Access have a proud, decades-long track record of market leadership in supporting clinical research and commercialization of innovative therapies. Arsenal takes pride in building organizations that meaningfully improve healthcare. We are excited to partner with management and employees to accelerate the growth of these two businesses,” said Gene Gorbach, an Investment Partner of …