Thermo Fisher To Acquire Millipore?

By Lori Clapper, Web Editor

Is another major merger in the works? According to a Bloomberg story released earlier this week, Thermo Scientific has made an unsolicited $6 billion offer to take over Millipore Corp. A source close to the situation told Bloomberg that a deal could be reached by next week.

Millipore has confirmed in a Reuters report that they are, in fact, considering "strategic alternatives," including potential merger and sale opportunities. The company has sought out financial and legal advisors, but will not release additional information until an agreement is reached, according to the report.

In a Dow Jones Newswire story, Thermo Fisher spokesperson Karen Kirkwood characterized the takeover report as a "rumor" and declined to comment further.

Thermo Scientific produces analytical instruments, as well as laboratory equipment, and other services to enable integrated laboratory workflow solutions.

Millipore provides technologies, tools, and services for bioscience research and biopharmaceutical manufacturing.