Royal Philips has announced that it has signed an agreement to acquire Unisensor, an innovator in the field of optical analysis of fluids for diagnostic applications in health care, as well as other industries. The Unisensor technology and team will strengthen Philips’ innovation capabilities in the field of patient sample analysis such as blood testing for applications in oncology therapy monitoring. These innovations aim to enhance patient triage and treatment at the point-of-care (i.e. near the patient), thereby helping to improve patient care at a lower cost.
Upon closing of the transaction, which is expected in the third quarter of 2014 and subject to certain closing conditions, Unisensor, headquartered in Allerød, Denmark, will become part of Philips’ Healthcare Incubator within Philips Innovation, Group & Services. Financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.
“Philips’ Healthcare Incubator has already produced promising early-stage businesses in the area of near-patient testing and monitoring for the hospital and the home,” said Perry van Rijsingen, General Manager for Philips Healthcare Incubator. “The acquisition of Unisensor will expand our technology platforms for miniaturized, mobile diagnostic solutions and support our ambition to become a leader in this new growth market for Philips.”
Unisensor was founded in 1997 and is a privately held company with approximately 35 employees. Unisensor’s current product line includes oCelloScope, an analytical instrument that is, amongst other applications, used within cancer cell studies on a research application basis. The company has partnerships with leading companies in animal health and water analysis, which Philips intends to continue.