Scantox Group Acquires UK’s Gentronix to Strengthen CRO Services

Denmark's Scantox Group has acquired UK-based contract research organization Gentronix, known for its expertise in genetic toxicology, for an undisclosed amount. As part of this deal, Mercia Ventures’ Northern Venture Capital Trusts (VCTs) exited the business, selling their stake for £14.8 million ($19.4m), marking a 4.5x return on investment. Gentronix, headquartered in Alderley Park, Cheshire, delivers predictive toxicology services to the pharmaceutical and chemical industries worldwide, helping clients detect genotoxic compounds early in drug and product development.

In addition to its core services, the company specializes in ocular and skin sensitization testing. Since its founding in 1999 by Professor Richard Walmsley, Gentronix has grown significantly, now employing nearly 70 people after doubling its workforce since 2021. In May, the company was honored with the King’s Award for Enterprise after boosting its international sales by 239% over three years, with exports making up 81% of its over £10 million annual revenue.

Gentronix will maintain its name and continue operations at its current site post-acquisition. The move will open doors to new global opportunities for Gentronix while allowing Scantox to broaden its services to better meet client needs and streamline drug development ahead of human trials.

Matt Tate, CEO of Gentronix, said in a statement, “Becoming a part of Scantox Group is a fantastic next step for Gentronix, opening up unique possibilities for us to offer an even greater service portfolio to our clients.  The scale-up journey at Gentronix has been strongly supported by Mercia and the Northen VCTs. Alex Gwyther and the team have been fantastic investment partners, working with us to develop a successful CRO that now has the opportunity to continue its growth within the Scantox group.”

Jeanet Løgsted, CEO of Scantox Group, further added, “I am thrilled that Scantox Group has been able to partner up with Gentronix. Genetic toxicology is a missing link in our portfolio and frequently requested by our clients to become a one-stop-shop premier CRO partner. Gentronix’s service line, client base, high quality standards and not least people culture fits perfectly with our DNA. Our business plan is to continuously expand our service portfolio across all sites and add scientific excellence to the Group.”