RLS (USA) Inc buys GE Healthcare's US radiopharmacy network

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 2 -- RLS (USA) Inc (Radioisotope Life Sciences) has purchased General Electric’s (GE) US radiopharmacy network, making it the largest pure molecular imaging focused firm in the United States.

Capitor, a boutique global financial advisory firm, structured and brought the deal to investors, playing a critical part in the years-long negotiation and collaboration between the parties. Financial terms were not disclosed.

The radiopharmacies will continue to supply GE Healthcare molecular imaging products, with RLS leveraging a 10-year distribution partnership agreement, according to a statement.

The now privately-owned radiopharmacy network includes a minority ownership by Perceptive Advisors, a US$7 billion healthcare specialist investment firm based in New York. (US$1 = RM4.149)

RLS’ executive team comprises Chief Executive Officer, Werner Gruner; Chief Investment Officer, Jaco van Niekerk; and Chief Operations Officer, Shane Cobb.

The radiopharmacy network includes 31 pharmacies across 18 states, including its current headquarters in Tampa, Florida. Under the direction of van Niekerk, RLS aims to invest US$2 billion over the next decade in expanding its footprint of pharmacies, while continuously investing in cutting-edge scientific and technological advancements.

Almost five-hundred former GE employees across the country are now part of the RLS family. The company is expected to relocate its headquarters to the east coast of Florida in the near future and is in conversations with various economic development councils as well as municipalities.

-- BERNAMA