Labcorp strengthens global clinical research footprint with acquisition of MLM Medical Lab

USA—Labcorp has acquired MLM Medical Labs, strengthening its global central laboratory and biomarker capabilities for clinical research and expanding its presence across key international markets.

MLM Medical Labs is a central and specialty laboratory provider with operations in Germany, South Africa, and the United States.

The acquisition brings MLM’s laboratory infrastructure and scientific expertise into Labcorp’s global network, creating a broader platform to support clinical trials across multiple regions.

The companies did not disclose the transaction’s financial terms.

Following the acquisition, Labcorp will operate a wholly owned laboratory network spanning Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America.

The expanded network is expected to provide clinical trial sponsors with more consistent scientific and operational support for multinational studies.

The deal also strengthens Labcorp’s capabilities in emerging clinical research markets.

In Africa, for example, MLM operates a central laboratory accredited by the College of American Pathologists, which provides laboratory testing and related services to clinical research programmes.

Supporting complex clinical trials

Brian Caveney, executive vice president and president of biopharma laboratory services at Labcorp, said clinical trial sponsors increasingly require scientific expertise, global reach, and operational flexibility as drug development programmes become more complex.

He said that MLM complements Labcorp’s existing capabilities and will enable the company to support a wider range of sponsors, from emerging biotechnology companies to large pharmaceutical manufacturers.

According to Caveney, the combined business will provide sponsors with expanded laboratory capabilities, regional expertise and dedicated support as they develop new therapies for patients worldwide.

The acquisition combines Labcorp’s scientific capabilities and operational scale with MLM’s established laboratory infrastructure and regional presence.

It also gives Labcorp a stronger foothold in markets where demand for clinical research services is growing.

Labcorp expands consumer genetic testing

The acquisition comes as Labcorp continues to expand its laboratory and genetic testing portfolio.

In July, the company launched the Marker by Labcorp Genetic Health Panel, a consumer test designed to provide information about inherited risks associated with more than 100 medically actionable conditions.

Available through Labcorp OnDemand, the test analyses 163 genes associated with hereditary cancer, cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders.

The panel is intended to provide consumers with information that can help identify potential inherited health risks.

For the MLM transaction, Evercore served as Labcorp’s exclusive financial adviser, while Pierson Ferdinand and Hogan Lovells provided legal counsel.

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