Merck KGaA will operate its laboratory business in future directly via Merck Japan Ltd., after coming to a corresponding agreement with its partner of many years, Kanto Chemical in Tokyo. Merck Japan will take over from Kanto Chemical the exclusive sales rights for the laboratory products of Merck with effect from June 2000. The two companies will in future also co-operate on a non-exclusive basis in the distribution of laboratory products. As announced by the Merck press office, with this reorganisation the Merck Group wants to achieve a stronger expansion of business in the Japanese market. Subject to the final settlement of details, Kanto wants to re- acquire Merck's 30 percent capital interest in Kanto. In 1998, the Merck Group achieved sales in Japan of DM 365 million. Direct sales of the laboratory business accounted for DM 20 million. Kanto chemicals achieved sales of appr. DM 810 million.
ots Original Text Service: Merck KgaA
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