Merial, Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica seal deal

Orlando-Merial and Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica Inc. (BI) have just inked a deal on a long-term strategic alliance.

At presstime, the companies announced certain details of the joint agreementat the recently concluded North American Veterinary Conference here.

Tom Zerzan, vice president of Merial's companion animal business in NorthAmerica, tells DVM Newsmagazine, the deal itself was about one year in themaking. "Today marks another milestone in Merial's history. The commercializationagreement with Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica demonstrates our continuedcommitment to seek newer and innovative ways to expand our services andproduct portfolio for veterinarians.

The deal gives Merial exclusive rights to sell new Boehringer IngelheimVetmedica products for companion animals. The first companion animal productsare anticipated sometime in 2003.

While the company would not offer details of new product introductions,the industry buzz is that the product will be in the category of pain management.

In short, the deal will likely give Merial entry into the lucrative painmanagement segment, pending Food and Drug Administration approval, and itgives Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica the sales and marketing muscle to bringa major new introduction into the veterinary market.

George Heidgerken, president and COO of Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica,says "We see this close cooperation as a perfect match for our twocompanies. Boehringer Ingelheim Vetmedica has successfully established adifferentiated pet line in Europe. This will now be launched in the U.S.with Merial as a highly competent partner. With their sales and marketingclout, as well as their depth of technical support, Merial is the leaderin bringing innovative products to the market."

Zerzan says that the agreement between the two companies will ultimatelyraise the level of care for companion animals, and remains the top strategicgoal for the company.

While eyes are on the pain management product, Zerzan adds that the agreementwill include additional companion animal products.