Crucell announces European protein distribution deal with Talecris Biotherapeutics

Dutch biotechnology company Crucell N.V. (Euronext, NASDAQ: CRXL, Swiss Exchange: CRX) today announced a long-term distribution deal with North Carolina-headquartered Talecris Biotherapeutics, GmBH.

Under the terms of the agreement, Crucell will serve as the exclusive distributor of Talecris’ Prolastin® (alpha-1 proteinase inhibitor) in 9 Western European countries, replacing current distributor, Bayer.

Fully praising the completion of the extraordinary deal, Crucell’s President and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Ronald H.P. Brus said, “We are very proud to work with such a well-established and respected company and take over the distribution from Bayer. Not only does this deal match with our mission to advance in the therapeutic proteins arena but it also strengthens Crucell’s global credibility and serves as a major step on our expansion path.”

This unique distribution deal makes the first full use of Crucell’s newly integrated pan-European marketing and sales organization created through the acquisitions of Berna Biotech and SBL Vaccines in 2006.

Alpha-1 treatments are currently sold across Europe and North America. The current North American annual market size is estimated to be over US$250 million.