Lonza to Divest Capsules & Health Ingredients Unit, Enhancing CDMO Focus

Lonza Group AG has confirmed its strategic move to become a purely contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) by agreeing to sell its Capsules & Health Ingredients (CHI) unit to Lone Star Funds. This deal values the CHI business at CHF 2.3 billion (USD 3 billion) and is expected to close in H2 2026. The transaction will grant Lonza CHF 1.7 billion upfront and a 40% stake in CHI, with a total expected return of CHF 3 billion.

The divestment underlines Lonza’s commitment to concentrate on its CDMO operations, promising boosted growth and revenue margins. The leading biotech company plans to reinvest proceeds into organic growth and strategic acquisitions, while returning CHF 500 million to shareholders through a share buyback.

Further portfolio changes include selling the Personalized Medicines and MODA® software platforms, and a site in Monteggio. With these moves, Lonza enhances its unique Lonza Engine® strengths, focusing on innovative pharmaceutical manufacturing.