LONDON: Animalcare Group Plc (AIM: ANCR) has acquired a 25% strategic equity stake in Australian veterinary pharmaceutical company InVetro Pty Ltd for A$3 million, bolstering its presence in the Asia-Pacific market.
The investment aligns with Animalcare’s expansion strategy and follows its January acquisition of Randlab. InVetro will use the funds to scale its commercial footprint, expand its product portfolio, and advance new product development. Animalcare has secured a pathway for increased ownership over time.
“InVetro is positioned for rapid growth in the Australian Companion Animal health sector, with a strong leadership team and a pipeline of market-specific products,” Animalcare said in a statement. The company aims to build a regional business with revenues of A$20-25 million.
Animalcare CEO Jenny Winter said the deal provides a foothold in a key market. “Australia presents a significant opportunity, and this partnership allows us to participate in that growth with a trusted team already on the ground,” she said.
InVetro founders Corinne Mawson and Zoe Chrysopoulos welcomed the investment, citing plans to accelerate their product range, including HCA spray (Itchderm), Orozyme, Plaqtiv+, proGlan, and proHibex.
Under the agreement, Animalcare will appoint a director to InVetro’s board. A call option allows Animalcare to increase its stake to 51% between mid-2029 and year-end, while InVetro’s shareholders retain a put option for early 2030.
Revenue from InVetro’s portfolio is expected to begin generating returns this year, with full product rollout by 2026.