Beckman Coulter to Acquire Flow Cytometry Instrumentation Business From Dako

Beckman Coulter, Inc., a leading developer of products that simplify and automate complex biomedical testing, and Dako Denmark A/S, a world leader in cancer diagnostics, announced today that Beckman Coulter will acquire Dako's research flow cytometry instrumentation business, which is based in Fort Collins, Colorado. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Scott Garrett, Beckman Coulter's president and chief executive officer, said, "We are enthusiastic about the opportunity to add Dako's MoFlo XDP high-performance sorter, the gold standard for cell sorting, and the highly capable nine-color CyAn research flow cytometer to our existing portfolio of cytometry instruments. This transaction allows us to offer a more comprehensive range of research solutions to our customers."

Dako's president and CEO, Patrik Dahlén, said, "This action reinforces our strategic intent to create a more focused business in anatomic pathology and tissue-based cancer diagnostics. We believe our flow cytometry instrumentation products are an excellent match for Beckman Coulter and will achieve even greater success when combined with the company's existing flow cytometry infrastructure and reputation for quality, service and support."

Dako's flow cytometry instrument business workforce of almost 200 people includes sales, marketing, research, manufacturing and administrative personnel. Flow cytometry is used to analyze cells in blood and other fluids for both research applications and diagnosis of diseases such as leukemia, lymphoma and HIV.

Garrett added, "I want to welcome the talented people transferring to us from Dako. We see significant opportunities for Beckman Coulter in flow cytometry and continue to expand our investment in this fast-growing market segment."

The transaction is expected to close by the end of the year. More information about the transaction will be available during Beckman Coulter's 2007 Annual Business Review meeting on December 11.

Source: Beckman Coulter