Opella becomes standalone company as Sanofi-CD&R deal closes

Opella has officially become a standalone company, following the completion of Sanofi’s sale of a controlling 50.0% stake to private equity firm Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R).

Sanofi retains a significant shareholding with a 48.2% stake while Bpifrance holds the remaining 1.8% stake.

Headquartered in France, Opella is the third-largest global player in the global Over-The-Counter (OTC) and Vitamins, Minerals and Supplements (VMS) sector, now valued at €190 billion. Its 100 brands – including Allegra/Allevia, Dulcolax, Buscopan and Cialis Together – are already trusted names in homes around the world.

As an independent company, Opella is set to redefine the future of self-care with a clear mission: “Health in Your Hands.”

“Going independent is not just a milestone. It is our moment,” said Julie Van Ongevalle, President and CEO of Opella.

“I am proud of our talented team of 11,000 who made this happen. With the right partners and a sharp focus, we are set to reshape how people everywhere manage their health – simply, confidently, and on their terms.”

Nick Linton, head of Opella UK, emphasised the company's ambitions to simplify self-care.

“Self-care in the UK is being redefined — fast. The responsibility for health is shifting, and people are stepping up. At Opella UK, we’re not just responding to that change — we’re driving it.”

“Today’s announcement marks our moment of independence, and we’re using it as a launchpad to innovate harder, connect deeper, and move faster.”

“Our mission is clear: to simplify healthcare to put health into people’s hands. We’re here to shake things up — and we’re just getting started.”

David Taylor, former chairman and CEO of Procter & Gamble and current chairman of the Board of Delta and senior advisor to CD&R funds, has been appointed chairman of Opella’s Supervisory Board.

Taylor commented: “What drew me to Opella is a mission with meaning, a company with courage, a talented team, and a business ready to break new ground.”

“Opella is not here to tweak the system – but to reimagine it.”

As it steps into the next chapter with powerful backing, Opella plans to focus on strengthening its trusted brands and deepening its presence in key markets.

“This is more than independence. It is the freedom to act. The power to simplify. And the drive to redefine the future of selfcare,” the company noted.