Sanofi Moves to Shed Consumer Health Business, in Talks with CD&R for 50% Stake

Pharmaceutical giant Sanofi SA is in advanced discussions to sell a 50% controlling stake in its consumer health unit, Opella, to private equity firm Clayton Dubilier & Rice (CD&R), Bloomberg reports.

According to sources familiar with the matter, CD&R has emerged as the frontrunner after competing with PAI Partners for the acquisition. The sale marks the culmination of a year-long effort by Sanofi to divest its consumer-health business as the company prioritizes investments in cutting-edge therapies, particularly in immunology and vaccines.

Sanofi believes this strategic shift will unlock greater long-term value for its core pharmaceutical operations. By offloading its consumer health business, Sanofi aims to focus resources on developing innovative treatments and technologies that hold greater potential for growth and profitability.

The financial terms of the deal remain undisclosed, but the transaction is expected to be finalized in the coming weeks, subject to regulatory approvals.