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Merz Pharma
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Merz Pharma
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Merz Pharma GmbH & Co. KGaA (also Merz Pharma KGaA or Merz) is an internationally active family-owned company, headquartered in Frankfurt am Main, Germany. Merz is the parent company of independent businesses in the fields of aesthetic medicine, therapeutic medicine (including for neurological movement disorders), and wellness and beauty products with its brands Tetesept[1] and Merz Spezial.[2]

Key Information

Company Structure

[edit]

The company was founded by Friedrich Merz and is still family-owned.[3] The management consists of Philip Burchard and Hans-Jörg Bergler.[4]

Merz Pharma GmbH & Co. KGaA is the parent company of the Merz Group. Since the 2020/21 financial year, the group has controlled the three businesses Merz Aesthetics GmbH, Merz Therapeutics GmbH and Merz Consumer Care GmbH. The businesses are under the supervision of the Merz board of partners and the Merz supervisory board.[5]

Merz employs around 3,730 people (2021/22) and generated a revenue of EUR 1.3434 billion in the 2021/22 fiscal year.[6] A large part of the revenue is generated in the United States through the sale of special products for medical and aesthetic applications.[7] Approximately 45% of sales are generated in the United States and almost 80% of all sales are generated outside of Germany.[8]

Production sites and subsidiaries

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Merz manages three production sites in Reinheim and Dessau (Germany) as well as in Racine County, Wisconsin (USA).[9] In addition, the Group has its own sales offices in Brazil, France, Great Britain, Italy, Canada, South Korea, Mexico, Austria, Russia, Switzerland, Singapore, Spain, Taiwan, USA,[9] Argentina, Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Colombia, the Netherlands, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, the United Arab Emirates and Vietnam. In addition, the group is active in around 70 countries through cooperations and distribution partnerships.[5]

Business Activities

[edit]

Merz Aesthetics

[edit]

Merz Aesthetics develops and sells products in the field of aesthetic medicine, e.g. a botulinum toxin, dermal fillers or medical technology.[10] It is the world's largest company dedicated exclusively to medical aesthetics. Bob Rhatigan manages this business as CEO.[11]

Merz Aresthetics uses celebrities to market its products. In 2019, model Christie Brinkley promoted a non-invasive wrinkle-tightening procedure. Gwyneth Paltrow became the first brand ambassador for Merz Aesthetics in 2020.[12] In 2023, Christina Aguilera promoted anti-wrinkle injections.[13] The company is also primary sponsor for the North Carolina Courage.[14] Merz announced its first three ambassadors for the Asia-Pacific region in 2022; Korean celebrities Lee Min-ho, Kim Ha-neul and Jeon So-min.[15]

In November 2024, the FDA reprimanded Merz for a misleading Instagram ad featuring Nate Berkus promoting Xeomin. The agency criticized claims about the drug’s rapid effects and unique benefits, citing a lack of supporting data, and found the risk disclosures inadequate, making the ad misleading about Xeomin’s safety.[16]

Merz Therapeutics

[edit]

Merz Therapeutics develops and distributes products for the treatment of neurological movement disorders such as dystonia and spasticity. It has its headquarters in Frankfurt.[17] Stefan König has been the managing director of this division since 2023.[17] In 2024, Merz Therapeutics acquired Inbrija, an inhaled Parkinson’s disease medication, and Ampyra (also known as Fampyra in some markets), a sustained-release multiple sclerosis tablet for $185 million from Acorda Therapeutics, which had filed for bankruptcy.[18]

Merz Consumer Care

[edit]

Merz Consumer Care develops and distributes health, beauty, and wellness products. The main brands are tetesept and Merz Spezial. It has its headquarters in Frankfurt.[19] Xenia Barth has been the managing director of this division since 2022.[20] In May 2023, the name Merz Lifecare was introduced as the corporate brand instead of Merz Consumer Care. Merz Consumer Care GmbH has been retained as the company name.[21]

History

[edit]

Early days

[edit]

In 1908, the trained pharmacist and chemist Friedrich Merz set up his own pharmaceutical production in Frankfurt am Main. At the time of its foundation, Merz already held a patent and a utility model protection. The company subsequently expanded and one year later moved to a former cigarette factory,[9] where the company's headquarters have been located since.[3][9] In the beginning, Merz developed and produced the first contraceptive for birth control, as well as menthol refreshment cigarettes, and ointments against scaly skin. During the Second World War, Allied air raids on Frankfurt destroyed about 70% of the buildings. However, Merz had outsourced duplicates of its production machinery to Reinheim (Darmstadt) and was thus able to quickly rebuild production after the end of the war.[7]

Product Expansion

[edit]

In 1953, Merz entered the cosmetics business with the first anti-wrinkle product (Placentubex). From the 1960s onwards, Merz developed dragées for beauty care.[22] Merz Spezial Dragees came into the market in 1964 and were promoted in the 1970s and 1980s under the slogan "Natural beauty comes from within".[23][24] In the 1970s, the company also expanded its products for medical prescription, for example for the treatment of Parkinson's disease and lowering elevated blood lipids. In 2002, Merz developed Memantine, the world's first active ingredient for the treatment of moderate to severe Alzheimer's dementia.[22] In 2005, Merz brought a new generation of botulinum toxins into the market.[9] At that time, the preparation was the only botulinum toxin type A (BoNT/A) without complexing foreign proteins and thus reduced the risk of antibody-mediated therapy failure.[25]

Change of Managing Director

[edit]

In 2012, the previous managing director and grandson of the company founder, Jochen Hückmann, retired from the business and handed over the management to Burchard.[3] Hückmann had held the management since the early 1970s. During this time, the company continued to expand its position internationally among other things with the development of the active ingredient Memantine.[22]

Medical technology in the field of aesthetics

[edit]

The patent for Memantine expired in Germany in 2012. Until then, it was the only approved drug against moderate and severe forms of dementia. In the USA, the drug still had three years of patent protection. In order not to suffer a drop in sales after the patent expired, the expansion of the aesthetic and special neurology divisions was pushed ahead.[3][22] Three years earlier, Merz had acquired the US company Bioform Medical for EUR 190 million. Bioform specialised in the production of fillers for aesthetic medicine.[3]

This was followed in 2013 by the purchase of the Swiss company Neocutis, whose aesthetic dermatology products were mainly in the USA by physicians. In the same year Merz took over the Swiss company Anteis, which also produced fillers for aesthetic medicine. Merz entered the non-invasive facelift medical device business in 2014 with the acquisition of US company Ulthera for a sum close to $600 million.[26][27][28] In 2015 Merz launched a subsidiary in Thailand.[29]

Creation of independent businesses

[edit]

Merz established a new corporate structure in late 2020. This organisational structure consists of three independently operating business divisions: Merz Aesthetics, Merz Therapeutics and Merz Consumer Care. In addition, the global Merz Aesthetics team moved from Frankfurt to Raleigh, North Carolina.[5][30] In early 2020, the company's business collapsed for three months as a result of the initial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Cosmetic and medical procedures were cancelled due to fear of contracting the virus and the scarcity of personal protective equipment such as gloves.[11]

It was announced at the beginning of 2023 that Merz would invest around EUR 120 million in the Reinheim site and that production at the site between the old town and the Gersprenzauen meadows would be phased out.[31]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Merz Pharma

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Merz Pharma GmbH & Co. KGaA is a privately held, family-owned pharmaceutical company headquartered in , , focused on innovative therapies in and neurotoxins. Founded in by 24-year-old chemist with an initial investment of 10,000 , the company has evolved from producing dental and contraceptive products into a global leader with nearly 5,000 employees operating in over 80 countries through 34 subsidiaries and distribution partners. The company's history is marked by key milestones in pharmaceutical innovation, beginning with the launch of Patentex, the world's first topical contraceptive, in 1911, followed by anti-aging products like Placentubex in 1953. In the early 2000s, Merz expanded into with for in 2002 and advanced formulations in 2005, establishing its expertise in therapies. By 2008, celebrating its centennial, Merz employed over 2,000 people worldwide, and subsequent acquisitions—including Bioform, Ulthera, and Anteis between 2010 and 2017—strengthened its portfolio in dermal fillers and energy-based devices like Ultherapy. In 2020, the company restructured into three core businesses: Merz Aesthetics for cosmetic injectables and devices such as Xeomin (), Radiesse, and Belotero; Merz Therapeutics for neurological and dermatological treatments; and Merz Lifecare, though the latter has seen divestitures like the 2019 sale of the brand. In recent years, Merz has accelerated growth in therapeutics, notably acquiring Inbrija, an inhaled levodopa for , and Fampyra (dalfampridine) for in July 2024, which doubled U.S. revenue for Merz Therapeutics that year. The company maintains a strong commitment to , with in-house capabilities driving products for , , and aesthetic enhancements, while emphasizing sustainability goals such as reducing by 90% by 2035 and achieving by 2030. As of 2025, Merz continues its family-owned tradition through a generational transition and management expansion, including the appointment of Dr. Almuth Steinkühler as in October, reinforcing its position as a top employer in .

Overview

Founding and headquarters

Merz Pharma was founded on , 1908, in am Main, , by , a 24-year-old and pharmacist. With an initial capital of 10,000 provided by his former master pharmacist, Emile Losson from , Merz established the company as a small-scale operation focused on the production of pharmaceutical and chemical products. The venture began in a modest setting, emphasizing innovative formulations such as early patents for topical creams, reflecting Merz's vision for accessible healthcare solutions. Originally named Chemische Fabrik Merz & Co., the company quickly expanded its operations. In , just one year after founding, it relocated to a larger facility at Eckenheimer Landstraße 100 in , a converted former that provided the space needed for growing production demands. This site has served as the enduring for Merz Pharma, symbolizing the company's deep in its hometown while adapting to over a century of industry evolution. Over the decades, the company's name has evolved from Chemische Fabrik Merz & Co. to Merz Pharma, aligning with its transformation into a specialized global player in pharmaceuticals and aesthetics. This progression underscores the family's continued stewardship, with the fourth generation now at the helm, maintaining the original commitment to innovation established by its founder.

Ownership and leadership

Merz Pharma is a privately held, family-owned company that has remained under the control of the Merz founding family since its establishment in 1908, with no public stock listing. The ownership structure is managed through Merz Holding GmbH & Co. KG, which serves as the parent entity for the group. In January 2025, the company underwent a generational transition in shareholder leadership, with three representatives from the founding family assuming key roles in the family holding to ensure continued family governance. The Merz Group Management Board provides overall leadership, comprising Philip Burchard as since 2012, Hans-Jörg Bergler as responsible for and corporate development, and Dr. Almuth Steinkühler as , who joined in November 2025 after serving in executive finance roles at companies including SCHOTT Pharma. Each business division is headed by dedicated CEOs: Bob Rhatigan for Merz , where he oversees global strategy and operations; Stefan König for Merz Therapeutics, focusing on neurology-focused innovations; and Xenia Barth for Merz Lifecare, managing consumer care initiatives. As of 2025, Merz employs nearly 5,000 people worldwide, with operations in over 80 countries through 34 subsidiaries and distribution partners. The company has announced plans to expand its U.S. workforce by over 50% following key acquisitions in 2024, including assets from Acorda Therapeutics, to support growth in its therapeutics portfolio. In the fiscal year 2021/22, the group achieved revenue of €1.3434 billion, underscoring its scale as a specialty healthcare provider.

Corporate Structure

Production facilities

Merz Pharma maintains a network of production facilities focused on manufacturing pharmaceuticals, medical aesthetics products, and consumer health items, adhering strictly to (GMP) standards across all sites. These facilities ensure high-quality output for botulinum neurotoxins, hyaluronic acid-based dermal fillers, and over-the-counter health products such as vitamins, cough and cold remedies, and bath and shower items. The company's primary production hub is in Reinheim, , where it handles the bulk of pharmaceutical and consumer health manufacturing, including semi-solid , tubes, and contract production for and medical devices. Established as a key site since , Reinheim employs around 230 people and operates under GMP certification from both European and U.S. authorities. In 2023, Merz announced a €120 million investment to build a new sustainable production facility there, with the expected to be laid in 2024 to expand capacity and meet rising demand in and therapeutics. In , , Merz operates a specialized biologics manufacturing site dedicated to advanced products like (Xeomin) and dermal fillers (Belotero). This facility, located in the BioPharmaPark, uses state-of-the-art technology for sterile filling and freeze-drying processes, complying with FDA and EMA GMP requirements. Significant upgrades include a 2017 investment of €15 million for a new dermal filler plant, creating 25 jobs, and further expansions in 2019 to triple vial production capacity. Merz's U.S. production operations are centered in Racine County, Wisconsin, with facilities in Sturtevant and Franksville supporting aesthetics and therapeutics manufacturing, including neurotoxin formulations and biomaterials. These sites, which employ over 165 people, underwent expansions in 2022 to enhance local production capabilities while maintaining GMP compliance. Key production facilities include sites in Reinheim and (), , US), and (Lonay and ). Merz also maintains R&D centers in () and , US) to support its global .

Subsidiaries and global presence

Merz Pharma maintains a robust international network, with sales offices in over 25 countries, including key locations in , , , , and . The company established its regional headquarters in in 2015 to capitalize on growing opportunities in the region. This direct presence supports operations across diverse markets, enabling localized strategies for distribution and customer engagement. The company's market reach extends to approximately 90 countries through a combination of direct sales and strategic partnerships. The Merz Group operates 34 subsidiaries worldwide, underscoring its global orientation beyond its German base. Key subsidiaries have been integrated through targeted acquisitions to bolster its international footprint. In 2010, Merz acquired BioForm Medical in the United States, incorporating the RADIESSE dermal filler into its portfolio. This was followed by the 2013 acquisition of Anteis S.A. in , which brought the Belotero line of fillers under Merz's control. In 2014, the purchase of Ulthera Inc. in the United States enhanced its capabilities in aesthetic devices, particularly ultrasound-based technologies. Merz Pharma's global strategy emphasizes expansion into emerging markets, particularly in , through both and alliances. A notable example is the 2017 partnership with Teijin Limited in , which granted exclusive rights for the distribution and co-development of Xeomin (incobotulinumtoxinA). This collaboration has facilitated deeper penetration into the Japanese market while aligning with Merz's focus on therapies. In October 2025, Merz Therapeutics established a new affiliate in to further expand its presence in .

Business Divisions

Merz Aesthetics

Merz Aesthetics is the aesthetics division of Merz Pharma, specializing in minimally invasive cosmetic treatments to enhance facial appearance and skin quality. Led by CEO Bob Rhatigan, the division drives strategy and operations to support healthcare professionals and patients globally through innovative aesthetic solutions. The division's core portfolio includes the botulinum neurotoxin Xeomin, launched in 2005 as a purified option for wrinkle reduction. It also features dermal fillers such as RADIESSE, acquired in 2010 through the purchase of BioForm Medical, and Belotero, obtained via the 2013 acquisition of Anteis, both used for volume restoration in facial contours. Additionally, Ultherapy, an ultrasound-based device for non-invasive skin tightening acquired in 2014 from Ulthera, complements the injectables lineup. Merz Aesthetics focuses on treatments addressing wrinkles, volume loss, and skin laxity, emphasizing patient safety and natural-looking results from minimally invasive procedures. Research and development efforts center on advancing neurotoxins and injectable technologies to improve efficacy and delivery in cosmetic applications. As a global leader in aesthetic medicine and the world's largest dedicated aesthetics business, Merz Aesthetics maintains a strong presence in the US market. Recent expansions include a 2016 investment in Cytrellis Biosystems to bolster energy-based device innovations.

Merz Therapeutics

Merz Therapeutics is the division of Merz Pharma dedicated to developing and commercializing treatments for neurological and , emphasizing innovative solutions for conditions such as , , , , and . The division prioritizes neurotoxin-based therapies and oral or injectable medications to address unmet needs in , with a strong focus on improving patient through targeted interventions. Under the leadership of CEO Stefan , who assumed the role in March 2023 and brings over 20 years of experience in biologics, , and specialty care, Merz Therapeutics drives global commercialization and research in . Key products in the division's portfolio include Xeomin (incobotulinumtoxinA), a botulinum approved by the FDA for the treatment of cervical dystonia in adults, in adults, and chronic sialorrhea in adults and pediatric patients aged 2 years and older. Another foundational therapy is , an launched by Merz in 2002 for the treatment of moderate-to-severe , marking a significant advancement in care at the time. In 2024, Merz Therapeutics expanded its offerings through the acquisition of Inbrija (levodopa powder), an on-demand treatment for OFF episodes in , and Ampyra (dalfampridine), a prolonged-release tablet to improve walking in patients with , in a $185 million asset purchase from Acorda Therapeutics. The division's research and development efforts center on advancing therapies, such as botulinum toxins for , alongside oral and injectable treatments for broader neurological applications. Merz Therapeutics invests in a robust pipeline targeting , , sialorrhea, and neurodegenerative conditions, collaborating with healthcare providers to translate innovations into clinical practice. While Xeomin is also utilized in aesthetic procedures, its therapeutic applications remain central to addressing debilitating neurological symptoms. On October 31, 2024, the FDA issued an untitled letter to Merz Pharmaceuticals criticizing a paid post promoting Xeomin for misleading presentations of risks and , highlighting the need for balanced risk information in . This enforcement action underscores ongoing regulatory scrutiny in the promotion of neuromodulator products.

Merz Lifecare

Merz Lifecare is the consumer care division of the Merz Group, specializing in over-the-counter products that promote everyday health, beauty, and . Formerly known as Merz Consumer Care, it was rebranded to Merz Lifecare on May 5, 2023, to better reflect its commitment to holistic wellness and empowering individuals in their health journeys through scientific innovation. The division operates under the legal entity Merz Consumer Care GmbH, headquartered in am Main, , and is led by CEO and Managing Director Xenia Barth, who has overseen its strategic direction since 2022. In early 2025, Merz Lifecare completed a strategic combination with WindStar Medical under a joint , with Merz acquiring a majority stake to strengthen its position in over-the-counter health and wellbeing products in the DACH region. The division's core portfolio includes longstanding focused on accessible solutions. The Tetesept , launched in 1965, offers bath and body care products designed to support relaxation and relief, with notable examples such as the Cold Care Bath for soothing cold symptoms. Merz Spezial Dragees, introduced in 1964, are beauty supplements containing vitamins, minerals, and yeast extracts to nourish skin, hair, and nails from within. Additionally, Placentubex anti-wrinkle cream, first developed in 1953, provides moisturizing and firming benefits for mature skin as an early entry into topical beauty care. Merz Lifecare emphasizes products targeting , vitality, and overall wellness, drawing on decades of to deliver evidence-based formulations without prescription requirements. These items, including bath additives, supplements, and creams, are distributed primarily through retail channels such as drugstores and pharmacies in , , and , with partnerships extending availability to over 20 countries worldwide. This focus on consumer empowerment aligns with the division's , "The Science of ," prioritizing sustainable and ingredients for daily use.

History

Early years (1908–1950s)

Merz Pharma was founded on March 9, 1908, by , a 24-year-old and , who established Chemische Fabrik Merz & Co. in am Main, , with an initial capital of 10,000 obtained through a . The company focused on pharmaceutical production from the outset, aiming to address unmet medical needs through innovative formulations. In its first year, Merz Pharma expanded operations and relocated to Eckenheimer Landstraße 100, a former cigarette factory that remains the company's headquarters today. A key early milestone came in 1911 with the launch of Patentex, the world's first topical contraceptive, which received praise from medical professionals despite opposition from the and the . During the 1920s, Friedrich Merz diversified beyond pharmaceuticals by supporting the founding of Merz & Krell & Co. KGaA in 1920, alongside his brother Georg Merz and master turner Justus Krell; this venture in Groß-Bieberau specialized in writing instruments, later evolving into the internationally recognized brand Senator. The 1930s marked a period of rapid international growth, with the establishment of new sites in , , Zurich, , and , USA, to support expanding pharmaceutical distribution. World War II severely disrupted operations, culminating in 1944 when Allied bombing raids destroyed the factory, reducing much of the infrastructure to rubble amid a challenging wartime environment. recovery began in 1945, with production resuming through the use of salvaged machinery relocated to Reinheim, enabling the company to rebuild its pharmaceutical capabilities amid Germany's economic reconstruction. The 1950s saw Merz Pharma pivot toward while maintaining its pharmaceutical roots, exemplified by the 1953 introduction of Placentubex, an innovative anti-wrinkle cream that utilized placental extracts to firm and rejuvenate the skin, marking one of the earliest commercial breakthroughs in aesthetic skincare. This product reflected the company's growing emphasis on beauty and wellness applications alongside traditional therapeutics.

Expansion and diversification (1960s–1990s)

In the , Merz Pharma significantly expanded its consumer health offerings, building on postwar recovery to diversify beyond basic pharmaceuticals. The company launched Merz Spezial Dragees in , an oral supplement featuring 18 active ingredients including , designed to promote " from within" and initially overcoming market skepticism to achieve widespread acceptance. This was closely followed by the introduction of the tetesept brand in 1965, starting with the Cold Care Bath—a product utilizing essential medicinal oils for relief from cold symptoms—which evolved into a broader line encompassing bath additives, vitamins, shower gels, and other over-the-counter remedies. By 1968, Merz further advanced its dermatological portfolio with the Placentubex Foaming Mask, an innovative skincare treatment that complemented earlier anti-aging creams and reinforced the company's focus on accessible and wellness products. The 1970s marked a pivotal shift toward prescription therapeutics, as Merz diversified into , metabolic disorders, and to address unmet medical needs. In 1970, the firm debuted PK-Merz (amantadine sulfate), a key entry into for alleviating symptoms like rigidity, , and akinesia, as well as drug-induced extrapyramidal effects. Concurrently, Merz developed treatments for elevated blood lipid levels to support cardiovascular health, Hepa-Merz for in chronic liver conditions, and a topical gel for herpes zoster management, expanding its . These innovations not only broadened the therapeutic pipeline but also integrated with existing consumer health lines, such as early over-the-counter remedies, to create a more comprehensive healthcare ecosystem. Throughout the and , Merz Pharma deepened its diversification in and consumer health while systematically building global sales networks to facilitate international . This era emphasized sustained product development in areas like and everyday wellness, setting the stage for broader operational scale. By the late , these efforts culminated in preparations for the company's centennial in 2008, when Merz had grown to over 2,000 employees worldwide, reflecting the enduring impact of mid-century foundations on its global stature.

Entry into aesthetics and therapeutics (2000s)

In the early 2000s, Merz Pharma marked a significant pivot toward and , building on its pharmaceutical heritage with innovative treatments for neurodegenerative diseases and aesthetic procedures. In 2002, the company launched under the brand name Ebixa, the first active compound worldwide specifically approved for treating moderate to severe , following approval. This represented a breakthrough in care, quickly becoming the second-most prescribed anti-dementia treatment globally and underscoring Merz's growing expertise in therapeutics. By 2005, Merz expanded into therapies with the introduction of Xeomin (incobotulinumtoxinA), a next-generation type A formulated without complexing proteins, initially approved in for such as cervical dystonia. This innovation addressed limitations of earlier botulinum toxins by offering improved stability and reduced , positioning Merz as a key player in specialized injectables. The launch reflected a strategic emphasis on high-precision therapeutics, with Xeomin later gaining approvals for aesthetic indications in 2009. Merz's centennial in 2008 highlighted its transformation, celebrating 100 years since its founding with a global employee base exceeding 2,000, a testament to its international expansion and research-driven growth. Between 2009 and 2010, the company accelerated its entry into through the acquisition of BioForm Medical, a U.S.-based firm, for approximately $253 million, integrating the RADIESSE dermal filler into its portfolio. This move, announced in 2010 and completed in , enhanced Merz's offerings in injectable fillers for , solidifying its shift from traditional pharmaceuticals to a focused leader in aesthetics and neurotoxin-based therapeutics.

Recent developments and restructuring (2010s–2025)

In the early 2010s, Merz Pharma pursued strategic acquisitions to bolster its aesthetics portfolio. In , the company acquired Anteis S.A., a Swiss firm specializing in the development and commercialization of biomedical products, including the Belotero dermal filler line. Later that year, Merz took over Neocutis, a specialist focused on medical and aesthetic skincare innovations. These moves aligned with Merz's aim to expand in non-surgical aesthetic treatments. In 2014, Merz completed the acquisition of Ulthera, Inc., gaining access to ultrasound-based skin tightening technology like Ultherapy, in a deal valued at over $600 million. Merz continued its international expansion in the mid-2010s. In 2015, it established its regional headquarters in to capitalize on growing market opportunities in the region. The following year, in 2016, Merz acquired ON Light Sciences, Inc., a U.S.-based company, to enhance its aesthetics offerings with light-based technologies. In 2017, Merz entered a with Japan's Teijin Pharma to commercialize and co-develop Xeomin (incobotulinumtoxinA) for the Japanese market. Marking a significant milestone in 2018, Merz celebrated its 110th anniversary, highlighting its evolution into a global leader in aesthetics and neurotoxin therapies, with approximately 3,000 employees and 34 subsidiaries worldwide. In 2019, Merz sold the Mederma scar care brand to HRA Pharma, streamlining its Consumer Care portfolio. A major organizational shift occurred in 2020, when Merz restructured into three independent businesses: Merz Aesthetics, focused on aesthetic medicine; Merz Therapeutics, targeting neurological and other therapeutic areas; and Merz Consumer Care, handling over-the-counter products. This separation, announced in late 2019, aimed to enhance customer focus and operational agility amid the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing each unit to operate autonomously while maintaining group synergies. In 2023, Merz invested €120 million in a new sustainable production facility at its Reinheim site in , intended to modernize and support long-term growth in pharmaceuticals and products. That same year, the Consumer Care division underwent a to Merz Lifecare, emphasizing holistic , well-being, and under brands like tetesept and Merz Spezial. In , Merz Therapeutics acquired INBRIJA (levodopa ) for and AMPYRA (dalfampridine) for from Acorda Therapeutics in a $185 million asset purchase, strengthening its portfolio. This deal also prompted plans to expand the U.S. workforce by over 50%, including adding roles in , to support commercialization and further . However, Merz faced regulatory scrutiny in November 2024 when the FDA's Office of Prescription Drug Promotion issued an untitled letter reprimanding the company for a misleading advertisement promoting Xeomin, criticizing unsubstantiated claims about the product's efficacy and risks. In 2025, Merz underwent a generational transition within its family ownership and expanded its management board with the appointment of Dr. Almuth Steinkühler as in October.

References

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  45. https://www.fda.gov/media/183512/download
  46. https://www.fiercepharma.com/marketing/fda-slams-merz-over-misleading-instagram-ad-botox-rival
  47. https://www.merz.com/de/news/neue-unternehmensmarke/
  48. https://www.merz-lifecare.com/en/das-sind-wir
  49. https://www.oakleycapitalinvestments.com/media/q5nbvpp5/oci_half_year_report_2025-1.pdf
  50. https://www.bundeskartellamt.de/SharedDocs/Meldung/EN/Pressemitteilungen/2024/18_11_2024_Merz.html
  51. https://www.merz-lifecare.com/en
  52. https://merztherapeutics.com/about/about-history/
  53. https://www.merz.com/blog/news/merz-turns-110-and-continues-its-success-story/
  54. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3116796/
  55. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2010/01/04/411460/10819/en/Merz-to-Acquire-BioForm-Medical.html
  56. https://www.merz.com/blog/news/neocutis/
  57. https://www.merz.com/blog/news/merz-acquires-aesthetics-medical-device-company-light-sciences/
  58. https://merztherapeutics.com/merz-and-teijin-announce-partnership-to-bring-xeomin-incobotulinumtoxina-to-japan/
  59. https://www.merz.com/blog/news/merz-to-create-three-independent-customer-focused/
  60. https://www.merz.com/blog/news/merz-healthcare-breaks-even-despite-covid-19-pandemic-in-fiscal-year-2019-20/
  61. https://www.fiercepharma.com/pharma/germanys-merz-plots-us-workforce-increase-ceo-eyes-further-acquisitions-following-185m-asset
  62. https://www.raps.org/news-and-articles/news-articles/2024/11/opdp-reprimands-merz-over-instagram-ad-for-botox-c
  63. https://www.merz.com/blog/news/merz-group-expands-management-board-dr-almuth-steinkuhler-appointed-new-chief-financial-officer-cfo/
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