MSD counts advantages of Vaki acquisition

PHARMACEUTICAL company MSD today announced the completion of its acquisition of Vaki, a specialist in fish monitoring equipment, from Pentair.

MSD, part of US based Merk, said the move will help it broaden its aquaculture portfolio, with Vaki’s precision farming and fish welfare solutions complementing its vaccine and pharmaceutical products.

Vaki will be a leading brand under the Biomark business within MSD Animal Health, focused on a range of equipment, products and technology for fish counting and size estimation.

Rick DeLuca, president, MSD Animal Health, said: ‘Animal health intelligence and enhanced technology play an increasingly important role in animal health and care, providing access to real-time actionable data and insights to help, improve or enhance animal management and health outcomes.

‘We are excited to take this step forward with Vaki, as we add leading technology and services, which extend the range of solutions in aquaculture we can provide to our customers.’

Karl Frykman, executive vice president and chief operating officer at Pentair, said: ‘We are proud of Vaki’s transformation over the past years.

‘Vaki has significant potential to continue to spearhead development in the aquaculture industry and we believe that MSD Animal Health is an ideal partner to support the next stage of its growth.’

Biomark also announced the appointment of Brian Beckley as its president. Beckley was chief operations officer of Biomark, responsible for commercial activities in support of the aquaculture and wildlife and conservation businesses, including the acquisition of Vaki.

Biomark specialises in electronic identification technology used in fisheries, wildlife and aquaculture research, including product sales, custom manufacturing, installation and extensive data management and analysis.