IVC to merge with Evidensia
The chief executive of IVC, David Hillier, will become CEO of the combined group.
Corporate veterinary groups Independent Vet Care and Evidensia have announced their intention to combine their businesses, a move that will make them the largest veterinary group in Europe.
Independent Vet Care, which was founded in 2011, has over 315 clinics in the UK and employs around 800 veterinary surgeons. The group was acquired by EQT in December 2016.
Meanwhile, Evidensia has more than 180 clinics and hospitals across the Nordic region and central Europe. The business was established in 2012 as part of a merger between a number of veterinary clinics and hospitals in Sweden. Since then it has grown rapidly and now employs 1200 veterinary surgeons. It was acquired by EQT in October 2014.
Together, IVC and Evidensia comprise around 500 clinics across eight countries.
The chief executive of IVC, David Hillier, will become CEO of the combined group.
Commenting on the merger, he said: “Our aim is to build the strongest and most respected veterinary group in Europe, founded on principles which are common to all of our practices: A passion for clinical care, a belief in teamwork, respect for the individual and entrepreneurship.
“The strong geographical presence of Evidensia in Northern Europe and of IVC in the United Kingdom is likewise complementary and will enable us to develop a dynamic network of leading clinical facilities which will benefit from our shared best practice and our improved purchasing power.”
Evidensia’s CEO, Martin Tiveus, added: “Having taken an active part in the IVC acquisition process, I am truly impressed with what David and his team has achieved so far.
“A merger between Evidensia and IVC will create the largest veterinary group in Europe and will benefit both pet owners, patients and our employees across Europe. I am proud of the team I have put together at Evidensia and I wish David and his new combined team all the best in shaping the future of veterinary care.”
FIVP has shared a survey, inviting those working in independent practice to share their views on the CMA's proposed remedies.
