GREENFIELD, Ind. – Elanco, the animal health division of Eli Lilly and Co., has reached an agreement to acquire Lohmann SE, leading supplier of poultry vaccines and feed additives with headquarters in Cuxhaven, Germany.

Eli Lilly will acquire all vaccines, feed additives, commercial capabilities and manufacturing sites in Cuxhaven and Winslow, Main belonging to Lohmann and its subsidiary, Lohmann Animal Health. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2014. No other details of the agreement were disclosed. Officials with Elanco said the acquisition will strengthen Elanco’s presence in the vaccine segment, broaden the company's product offerings and significantly augment Elanco’s vaccine manufacturing capabilities.


“Effectively competing in the animal vaccine segment is a cornerstone of Elanco’s long-term strategy and is one more way we will expand the value we create for customers,” said Jeff Simmons, senior vice president of Eli Lilly and Co. and president of Elanco Animal Health. “The addition of Lohmann Animal Health provides a unique opportunity for Elanco to expand our presence in the global poultry market and to enter the global poultry vaccine market with a solid base, established products, and global commercial and manufacturing capabilities.”

Eli Lilly lowered its full-year 2014 earnings per share guidance to $2.72 to $2.80 on both a reported and non-GAAP basis. Any updates will be provided on the company’s first-quarter 2014 earnings call on April 24.