In the first eight months of 2016, 80 transactions were announced in the Medical Device sector, making it unlikely this year’s deal volume would surpass last year’s total of 114 deals. As the third quarter wraps up, the sector’s deal volume has reached 90 deals: 31 in Q1, 27 in Q2, and 32 as of September 27th in Q3. If that deal making pace continues through Q4, at 2016’s average rate of 30 deals a quarter, we’ll see a 5% increase in deal volume since last year.
September’s medical device deals include interventional device maker Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE: BSX), which acquired EndoChoice Holdings Inc. (NYSE: GI), maker of endoscopic imaging systems, devices and infection control products and pathology services for specialists treating a wide range of gastrointestinal conditions, including colon cancer. Its portfolio includes single-use devices, such as resection and retrieval devices, needles, graspers, and infection control kits, and it also has a strong position in pathology services and imaging technologies.
Boston Scientific agreed to pay $8.00 per share, or $208.4 million, for EndoChoice, which works out to 2.8x revenue.
This is Boston Scientific’s second acquisition this year, following its July 27th purchase of Cosman Medical Inc. for an undisclosed amount. Cosman develops and distributes radiofrequency (RF) pain management and neurosurgery products.
Stryker Corporation (NYSE: SYK) holds the record for the sector’s busiest buyer this year, with eight acquisitions. Medtronic (NYSE: MDT) has announced five deals, and Cantel Medical Corp. (NYSE: CMN) and Zimmer Biomet (NYSE: ZBH) are tied with three deals each for the year. We’ll see what the fourth quarter brings.
