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Observe Medical acquires Biim Ultrasound
Observe Medical and the shareholders of Biim Ultrasound have announced a definitive agreement whereby Observe Medical will acquire 100% of the shares in Biim Ultrasound.
The transaction, which values Biim Ultrasound at approximately NOK 185 million (EUR 18.5 million), will be settled in cash and shares.
The agreement further strengthens Observe Medical’s position as a Nordic-based medtech platform with global reach, it states. The company will continue its focus on improving patient welfare and outcome, promoting positive health economics and providing improved clinical data accuracy.
A game-changer
“The acquisition of Biim is a game-changer for Observe Medical. We are a Nordic-based medtech company with global reach, and by joining forces with Biim Ultrasound, we are strengthening the product portfolio and expanding our distribution network globally. The aim is to significantly accelerate the commercial roll-out of Sippi in both Europe and the US. In parallel, Observe Medical’s network will be utilized to launch Biim on the European market. As a result, we have a further strengthened and solid platform for growth, supported by organic growth and targeted M&A, which enables us to commercialize proprietary and innovative medtech products on a global scale,” says CEO of Observe Medical, Björn Larsson.
Biim Ultrasound
Biim Ultrasound has developed a wireless and pocketable ultrasound probe, Biim, that can scan patients and review images in seconds. The objective of Biim is to enhance healthcare personnel decision-making and improve patient outcomes. Biim’s technology is patented, and the device received 510 (k) clearance from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2018. Biim is approved for ultrasound imaging of the human body and is specifically used to guide needle and catheter insertions for dialysis and vascular access procedures. Work is underway to explore additional areas of use, not limited to the use of abdominal and cardiac probes.
A partner agreement with Fresenius Kidney Care is already in place, whereby Biim is intended to be used across Fresenius’ dialysis centres in the US.
Biim Ultrasound’s US network is also expected to further drive the pace of the global commercial roll-out of Sippi, Observe Medical’s automated digital urine meter with biofilm control and wireless connectivity, accelerating the current roll-out in Europe and drive an earlier US market entry. As previously communicated during the third quarter 2021 report, Observe Medical has strengthened the US patent protection for Sippi and clarified the regulatory pathway into the US.
“I am proud of the work we have accomplished at Biim Ultrasound so far, and that Observe Medical sees the market need for Biim and its potential within the dialysis and vascular access segments and beyond. We have a shared vision to utilize innovative technologies to improve patient outcomes and promote beneficial health economics. Together and as a result of the transaction, we will benefit from significant synergies and continued growth of the business. I am confident that Observe Medical is the right partner for us to ensure that our innovative technology reaches hospitals and medical facilities globally,” says Rune Nystad, CEO of Biim Ultrasound.
Offices in Norway, Sweden, Finland and the US
The company and Biim Ultrasound had combined pro forma revenues of NOK 25 million in 2020 and have offices in Norway, Sweden, Finland and the US. Although no assurance can be given, the long-term ambition is sales of NOK 500 million per year for Sippi, NOK 500 million per year for Biim and NOK 100 million per year for the Nordic portfolio.
The transaction values Biim Ultrasound at approximately NOK 185 million (approx. EUR 18.5 million), representing an enterprise value of approximately NOK 209 million (approx. EUR 20.9 million), financed through a combination of 8,171,913 consideration shares to be issued by the company at a price of NOK 16.52 per share, and cash settlement of NOK 50 million.
The transaction is subject to the approval by the extraordinary general meeting of the company to be held on 4 February 2022 of a rights issue and an authority to the Company’s Board of Directors to issue the consideration shares as well certain other customary conditions.
The agreement is expected to be completed in March 2022.
Photo of Björn Larsson, CEO, Observe Medical and Rune Nystad, CEO, Biim Ultrasound: Bård Gudim
Published: January 14, 2022
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