Copan and bioMérieux Sign Exclusive Worldwide Distribution Agreement

Copan and bioMérieux announce today that they have signed an exclusive worldwide distribution agreement authorizing bioMérieux to market, for the pharmaceutical industry, an innovative sample collection system based on technology developed by Copan.

This patented product marks a major breakthrough because it is the first swab on the market that can be used to perform a quantitative environmental control. The unique texture of the
Nylon™ flocked swab picks up more microorganisms than conventional swabs. This swab is protected by a triple sterile packaging designed specifically for aseptic manufacturing facilities.
It is intended for pharmaceutical industries which use clean rooms and controlled environments.

This agreement provides bioMérieux with the perfect addition to its line of environmental controls, comprised notably of the air IDEAL 3P air sampler and a complete range of ready-to-use media. The swab can be used with bioMérieux culture media plates to provide a quantitative determination of the bioburden in an environment. Granted by Copan to bioMérieux, this distribution agreement is exclusive and worldwide. In addition to this agreement, both companies have signed an agreement to distribute a Nylon flocked swab for bioMérieux’s clinical business.

“We are delighted to distribute such an innovative product. Copan’s technology is highly complementary with our line of products and allows us to extend our current environmental control solutions to new market segments,” says Stéphane Bancel, Chief Executive Officer of bioMérieux.

“bioMérieux’s attitude towards Copan proves the willingness to establish a truly long-term partnership. Synergies between the innovation offered by Copan and bioMérieux’s positioning are the major assets that will guarantee the success of the project success” states Daniele Triva, General Manager of Copan Innovation.

About Copan
Copan is world leader in the field of research, development and production of innovative systems for the collection and storage of bacteria and viruses for culture and molecular biology. These systems are used in both clinical and industrial activities.
Through its quantitative approach in the pre-analytical step, Copan contributes to the optimization of the diagnostics process. In 2006, Copan sales reached 27 million euros, of which 90% were achieved on an international level.
Web site: http://www.copaninnovation.com.