Thermo Fisher Scientific has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its microbiology business to Astorg for approximately $1.075bn, the company announced.
The transaction comprises cash consideration alongside a $50m seller note and is expected to close in the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.
The company’s microbiology unit provides antimicrobial susceptibility testing and culture media solutions used across clinical diagnostics, pharmaceutical manufacturing testing and food safety testing environments.
The business reported revenues of $645m in 2025 and currently operates within Thermo Fisher’s Specialty Diagnostics segment.
Further details on financial impacts are expected to be provided during Thermo Fisher’s second quarter earnings call.
Within this microbiology portfolio,Thermo Fisher Scientific serves as the exclusive US distributor of Clever Culture Systems’ automated plate assessment system.
The innovative system uses artificial intelligence and machine learning software to automate the imaging, analysis and interpretation of microbiology culture plates.
The pharma-grade plate reading system was also picked up by AstraZeneca and later Bristol Myers Squibb.
“We believe the microbiology business is an excellent fit within Astorg’s portfolio. We are confident in a smooth transition and wish the business and colleagues continued success after close under its new ownership,” said Marc Casper, Chairman and CEO of Thermo Fisher.