By Fineline Cube 
Opella, the consumer health business of French pharmaceutical giant Sanofi (NASDAQ: SNY), became an independent consumer healthcare company last week following the completion of its sale to Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R) of a 50% controlling stake. Sanofi retains a significant shareholding in Opella with a 48.2% stake, while Bpifrance will hold a 1.8% stake and join the Board of Directors. Sanofi has received total net cash proceeds of approximately EUR 10 billion (USD 11.3 billion).
Transaction Overview
The transaction positions Sanofi as a pure-play biopharma company, strategically focused on advancing scientific innovation and accelerating the development of breakthrough medicines and vaccines. This move underscores Sanofi’s commitment to enhancing its core biopharma business.
Opella Profile
Headquartered in France, Opella employs over 11,000 highly skilled professionals and operates in more than 100 countries with 13 strategically located manufacturing facilities. The company maintains four R&D innovation centers and boasts a portfolio of iconic brands such as Allegra, Doliprane, and Dulcolax. Opella ranks as the third-largest global player in the over-the-counter (OTC) and vitamins, minerals, and supplements (VMS) market, serving over 500 million consumers annually. The company operates in a rapidly expanding industry, driven by structural long-term trends including population aging, rising disposable incomes, and heightened awareness of health and wellness.-Fineline Info & Tech