Samsung Biologics to Acquire PolyPeptide in $1.81 Billion All-Cash Deal
South Korea's Samsung Biologics has agreed to acquire Swiss contract drug manufacturer PolyPeptide in an all-cash transaction valued at 1.46 billion Swiss francs (approximately $1.81 billion). The acquisition marks one of the company's largest international expansion moves and significantly strengthens its position in the rapidly growing peptide therapeutics market.
Under the terms of the agreement, Samsung Biologics will offer 44.31 Swiss francs per share, representing a 6.1% premium over PolyPeptide's closing share price of 41.75 Swiss francs on Friday.
The tender offer is expected to begin before the end of August, with the transaction anticipated to be completed by the end of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.
Expanding Presence in Peptide Therapeutics
Samsung Biologics said the acquisition aligns with its long-term strategy to expand its capabilities in peptide-based medicines, an area witnessing strong global demand.
The deal will strengthen the company's manufacturing expertise in treatments for obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic diseases, particularly medicines based on GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) therapies, one of the fastest-growing segments in the pharmaceutical industry.
By integrating PolyPeptide's manufacturing technologies and production facilities, Samsung aims to enhance its contract development and manufacturing (CDMO) services for pharmaceutical clients worldwide.
PolyPeptide Board Supports the Offer
PolyPeptide confirmed that its Board of Directors has unanimously recommended shareholders accept Samsung Biologics' offer.
The company's largest shareholder, Draupnir Holding, which controls approximately 55.65% of PolyPeptide's outstanding shares, has also committed to tendering its entire stake into the offer.
Draupnir had announced in April 2026 that it was reviewing strategic alternatives for its majority holding in PolyPeptide.
Delisting Planned After Acquisition
Following completion of the acquisition, Samsung Biologics intends to initiate a squeeze-out process for any remaining minority shareholders.
The company also plans to delist PolyPeptide from the SIX Swiss Exchange, making the Swiss manufacturer a wholly owned subsidiary.
This move would allow Samsung to fully integrate PolyPeptide's operations into its global manufacturing network while accelerating future investments in peptide drug development.
Ownership Background
PolyPeptide noted that Draupnir Holding's parent organization is the Cryosphere Foundation, which has previously been linked to Swedish billionaire Frederik Paulsen.
The support of the majority shareholder is expected to improve the likelihood of a smooth completion of the transaction.
The acquisition strengthens Samsung Biologics' presence in the global pharmaceutical manufacturing sector and positions the company to capitalize on growing demand for peptide-based medicines, particularly next-generation obesity and diabetes treatments.