Since Merial Merck JV Is Long Defunct, Merial Buying Merck's Barceloneta Puerto Rico AH Facility

The post Schering-Plough antitrust problems with this old and convoluted joint venture idea were insurmountable. That caused the deal's demise, in March 2011.

But Heartgard chewables are still made there, and at least 200 workers will keep their jobs. Earlier it looked like Merck might close the facility on the island, due to tax haven law changes, in 2010. So this is good news. Per Pharmalot, and Pharmabiz, respectively:

. . . ."The Barceloneta manufacturing operation aligns well with Sanofi and Merial's global business and manufacturing strategies," said Merial CEO and Sanofi EVP Carsten Hellmann. "This addition to Merial's global manufacturing network, which spans nine countries, enables Merial to further extend its global production capabilities to deliver high-quality and innovative medicines that enhance the health and well-being of animals. We look forward to assuming responsibility for this global production site and welcoming its experienced employees to Merial."

The formulation and packaging operations of the site were put up for sale by Merck. The Barceloneta production facility has been involved in and will maintain responsibility for manufacturing and packaging Merial's industry-leading Heartgard and Heartgard Plus products. . . .

So it goes -- gray Friday here, but be of good cheer. . . and trust that the 200 families in Puerto Rico are, as of today!