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Merial acquired by Boehringer Ingelheim
The businesses have combined to form the new Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Business Unit.
Combined animal health business is the world’s second largest
 
Boehringer Ingelheim has announced its acquisition of Merial, making it the second largest animal health business in the world.

The businesses have combined to form the new Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health Business Unit, which is headed up by Joachim Hasenmaier.

“Our complementary portfolios make these two businesses a perfect fit,” Hasenmaier said. “As one animal health business, Boehringer Ingelheim has the increased expertise and resources to offer more innovation and a broader range of animal health solutions across the Middle East, Turkey and Africa (META) region.

“We are passionate about animal health, and we share a common vision. We recognise the critical importance of serving animal health needs globally, with a focus on prevention. When animals are healthy, humans are healthier too, and we commit to making the industry even better at improving both human and animal health.”

Growth in the META region will be led by Herbert Pohle, the newly appointed head of animal health operations. Pohle is based in the United Arab Emirates and will oversee the company’s integration, growth and development into a robust animal health business in the region, with a mandate to drive market leadership in sales, innovation and customer service.

Pohle said: “This is an exciting time for the Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health business and for the industry in the region. We have a dedicated and strong team throughout the META, and we will work towards improving human and animal health.”

Hasenmaier added: “We will continue to invest in our leadership positions in equine and pets and to strengthen and build in cattle, poultry and other livestock. And we will continue our special focus on prevention as a leader in vaccines and anti-parasitics, while ensuring we address the spectrum of health treatment needs in the region.

“We want to support farmers to raise and care for animals in a healthy, sustainable, and financially viable way that builds confidence with consumers. We want to help pets live longer and better. And we commit to maintaining the excellent service our customers and partners expect throughout the region. As a family-owned business, we can take the long-term perspective to achieve this.”

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FIVP launches CMA remedies survey

News Story 1
 FIVP has shared a survey, inviting those working in independent practice to share their views on the CMA's proposed remedies.

The Impact Assessment will help inform the group's response to the CMA, as it prepares to submit further evidence to the Inquiry Group. FIVP will also be attending a hearing in November.

Data will be anonymised and used solely for FIVP's response to the CMA. The survey will close on Friday, 31 October 2025. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
CMA to host webinar exploring provisional decisions

The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is to host a webinar for veterinary professionals to explain the details of its provisional decisions, released on 15 October 2025.

The webinar will take place on Wednesday, 29 October 2025 from 1.00pm to 2.00pm.

Officials will discuss the changes which those in practice may need to make if the provisional remedies go ahead. They will also share what happens next with the investigation.

The CMA will be answering questions from the main parties of the investigation, as well as other questions submitted ahead of the webinar.

Attendees can register here before Wednesday, 29 October at 11am. Questions must be submitted before 10am on 27 October.

A recording of the webinar will be accessible after the event.