French Government Secures Stake in Doliprane Maker Amid US Takeover

Sanofi's sale of a majority stake in its Opella unit to US firm CD&R includes French state involvement to ensure local production and jobs.

Sanofi has entered into exclusive negotiations to sell a 50% controlling stake in its consumer healthcare unit, Opella, to US private equity firm Clayton Dubilier & Rice (CD&R) for €16 billion.
The French government, through public investment bank Bpifrance, will acquire a 1-2% stake in Opella to maintain influence over the company's strategic decisions.
The deal includes guarantees to keep Opella's production and jobs in France, with penalties for non-compliance, such as a €40 million fine if production ceases at key sites.
Sanofi will retain a 48% stake in Opella, allowing it to focus more on its core pharmaceuticals and vaccine businesses.
The transaction is subject to regulatory approval and is expected to be finalized by the second quarter of 2025.