Smith & Nephew Expands Reach in Emerging Markets with Purchase of Distributor in Colombia

Smith & Nephew plc has acquired EuroCiencia Colombia, which has been the company’s sole distributor for orthopedic reconstruction, trauma and sports medicine products in Colombia since 2006.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed. The purchase expands the company’s direct reach in to the emerging markets of Latin America.

“ECC provides us with an established, successful platform to accelerate growth in Colombia, one of the largest economies in Latin America,” said Olivier Bohuon, CEO of Smith & Nephew. “With increased resources and direct relationships with customers we are better able to fulfil their needs, through our pioneering technologies and enhanced service. We welcome our new employees to
Smith & Nephew and look forward to working together to support healthcare professionals in improving the quality of life for their patients.”

The acquisition of ECC is in-line with Smith & Nephew’s strategy to supplement its organic growth through acquisitions and follows similar recent transactions in Brazil, Turkey and India.

Emerging markets delivered 17 percent revenue growth for the company in 2014 and accounts for 15 percent of revenue, up from 8 percent in 2010. Annual sales in 2014 were more than $4.6 billion.

ECC, which has a workforce of approximately 150 people, was acquired from Miami, Fla.-based GrupoCiencia, a distributor of Smith & Nephew products in Latin America since 1947.
Smith & Nephew’s business breaks down into four categories: Orthopedic Reconstruction, Advanced Wound Management, Sports Medicine, and Trauma & Extremities.