Essex Woodlands to Acquire Health Care Portfolio

Aug 31 2010

LONDON, United Kingdom—Essex Woodlands Health Ventures (“Essex Woodlands”) announced today that it has agreed to purchase a portfolio of investments in health care companies from Goldman Sachs. Financial terms of the transaction were not disclosed.  The health care portfolio comprises four companies: EUSA Pharma, Healthcare Brands International, MedAvante and Small Bone Innovations, that are consistent with Essex’s focus on growth equity investing.

“We are pleased to be increasing our position in two companies in which Essex is already lead investor, namely EUSA Pharma and Healthcare Brands International.” commented Dr. Petri Vainio, Managing Director. “We are also pleased with the opportunity to become investors for the first time in MedAvante and Small Bone Innovations and look forward to helping these companies grow and maximise their potential.” The purchase is subject to standard pre-emption processes and was supported by funds from Essex Woodlands, Pomona Capital, Adams Street Partners and Pantheon Ventures.

About Essex Woodlands Health Ventures:
With $2.5 billion under management, Essex Woodlands is one of the largest and oldest venture capital and growth equity firms pursuing investments in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical devices, health care services, and health information technology.  Since its founding in 1985, Essex Woodlands has maintained its singular commitment to the health care industry and has been involved in the founding, investing, and/or the management of over 100 health care companies ranging across all sectors, stages and geography. The team is comprised of 26 senior investment professionals with offices in Palo Alto, Houston, New York and London. For more information please see www.ewhv.com.