PCI Pharma Services to Acquire Sherpa Clinical Packaging

Sherpa Clinical Packaging (Sherpa) has announced an agreement to be acquired by PCI Pharma Services (PCI). Sherpa, headquartered in San Diego, CA, provides clinical trial material management services for clinical studies phases I-IV, including packaging, labeling, distribution, storage and returns and destruction services. Sherpa’s state-of-the art facilities employ the latest cold chain technologies that include handling products requiring labeling and kitting at frozen and refrigerated conditions.

“Sherpa has always been committed to providing our customers with the best customer service and expertise in clinical supply management,” says Mark Paiz, President of Sherpa. “With this acquisition, our customers will now have access to PCI’s expanded clinical packaging services, extensive manufacturing of clinical trial materials, as well as global reach through U.S., European, and Asia Pacific depots to support their clinical studies.”

Headquartered in Philadelphia, PA, PCI provides its clients a global molecule-to-market service offering that spans contract development and manufacturing, including market-leading specialization in highly complex and potent drugs, clinical supply services and commercial packaging services. PCI’s clinical services include drug development and manufacturing, packaging and labeling, storage and logistical services, including support for Cold Chain and Ultra Cold Chain down to -196°C.  The company is strategically and actively investing in the expansion of its global Clinical Services business and this marks its third acquisition in 12 months.

“We are extremely excited for what Sherpa brings to the PCI business,” notes Salim Haffar, CEO of PCI. “We have experienced considerable growth in our clinical business, and over the past 12 months made a number of key acquisitions to further expand our presence in key geographies including Ireland, Australia, and now California, along the way adding exciting new capabilities. Our #1 commitment to our clients is to provide the industry leading experience. This includes outstanding service, expansive capability, as well as the ability to support client studies around the world. Sherpa’s tremendous growth and reputation is clearly founded in their dedication to servicing their customers at the highest levels, which very much aligns to our core mission.”

Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. acted as exclusive financial advisor to Sherpa for this transaction and Snell & Wilmer LLP acted as legal counsel to Sherpa for this transaction.