Opella becomes standalone company as CD&R acquisition closes

UAE—Sanofi has finalized the sale of a 50% controlling stake in its consumer healthcare business, Opella, to the American private equity firm Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R), officially making Opella a standalone company.

Sanofi retains a significant shareholding of 48.2%, while France’s state investment bank, Bpifrance, holds a 1.8% stake.

This transaction values Opella at approximately €16 billion, which is about US$17.3 billion, and Sanofi has received net cash proceeds of around €10 billion (roughly US$10.8 billion).

With this move, Opella embarks on a new chapter, backed by strong partners and a clear mission: “Health in Your Hands.”

The company aims to make self-care straightforward and accessible, reflecting the growing global demand for over-the-counter (OTC) health solutions.

 As the world’s third-largest player in the US$205 billion OTC and vitamins, minerals, and supplements market, Opella is expected for growth in a sector shaped by aging populations, digital health access, and a rising focus on self-care.

Headquartered in France, Opella manages a portfolio of about 100 well-known brands, including Telfast, Enterogermina, Dulcolax, Maalox, Buscopan, Mucosolvan, Bronchicum, Naselfast, Pharmaton, Allegra, IcyHot, and Doliprane.

These brands are trusted in homes across more than 100 countries, supported by a workforce of 11,000 employees and 13 manufacturing sites worldwide.

Sanofi’s decision to spin off Opella is not merely a change in ownership but a strategic shift.

The move allows Sanofi to focus on its core business of innovative medicines and vaccines, while Opella gains the freedom and agility to pursue its own growth as a fast-moving consumer healthcare company.

Julie Van Ongevalle, Opella’s President and CEO, emphasized that independence marks a significant milestone for the company.

She praised the dedication of Opella’s global team and highlighted the company’s commitment to simplifying self-care, enhancing health literacy, and advancing sustainability.

 Feirouz Ellouze, General Manager for the Africa-Middle East-Türkiye (AMET) zone, echoed this sentiment, stating that Opella’s mission is to make self-care as simple as it should be, working closely with stakeholders to improve health outcomes everywhere.

David Taylor, former Chairman and CEO of Procter & Gamble and now Chairman of Opella’s Supervisory Board, brings decades of experience in brand leadership.

He stated that Opella’s mission, talented team, and readiness to innovate were key factors in his decision to join.

Taylor stressed that Opella’s goal is not just to improve the system but to reimagine it, focusing on strengthening trusted brands, expanding into new markets, and driving smart acquisitions.

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