Medtronic Announces First Acquisition of 2016

M&A hungry Medtronic has announced its latest target, this time the renal-disease specialist Bellco.

Qmed Staff

One of the biggest makers of diabetes technology market, Medtronic is expanding its position in the niche by buying privately-held Bellco (Mirandola, Italy), which it describes as a pioneer in hemodialysis treatment.  

The purchase will expand Medtronic's existing renal access business and strengthen its newly created renal care division. Included in Bellco's existing product line are dialyzers and chronic and acute dialysis machines for patients of all ages.

Both companies expect the potential demographic of patients with end stage renal disease (ESRD) to grow quickly, potentially doubling within the next decade.

"ESRD patients require dialysis for the remainder of their lives, or until a viable kidney transplant becomes available. We believe Medtronic's Renal Care Solutions can offer better, more accessible and affordable solutions to the growing population of people living with ESRD," explained Ven Manda, president of Renal Care Solutions, Medtronic in a statement.

Since its $50 billion acquisition of Covidien, Medtronic had announced a steady stream of smaller M&A deals throughout 2015.

Bellco had previously been owned Charme Capital Partners.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Next: What Medtronic Bought on Its $1 Billion Shopping Spree

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