Medical Research Network (MRN), a UK based pioneer in the patient-centric clinical trials market and a market leader in Decentralised Clinical Trials (DCTs), has completed the acquisition of VCTC, a UK-based multi-therapeutic clinical research site network.
The acquisition of VCTC is part of MRN’s growth strategy, building partnerships with UK and international clinical trial support organisations that align with focus on providing patient-centric, community-based clinical trials.
VCTC, which is based in Derbyshire, operates established clinical trial sites across the UK including an associated network of around 30 referral sites, and is developing operations in Europe. It undertakes full patient outreach, recruitment and treatment in trials with sponsors as its main customers.
VCTC was founded almost three years ago by Dr. Helen Shaw and Dan Henley. They will remain with the business and continue in their current roles along with its existing team which has quickly grown to become a well-recognised and respected brand in the clinical trials sector.
In addition to supporting its continued development in the UK, MRN will assist VCTC’s international growth ambitions as both businesses build a combined global site network. The two businesses will work closely moving forward, leveraging the combined client base, operational synergies and together will continue to lead innovation in the Decentralised Clinical Trials (DCT) space.
MRN, which has its UK HQ in Milton Keynes and affiliate offices in Chicago (USA), Stuttgart (Germany), Madrid (Spain), Lyon (France) and Tokyo (Japan) operates in over 60 countries globally and has long been one of the strongest brands in community-based trial solutions, which encompasses the concept of DCT.
Earlier this year it announced an acquisition-led growth strategy to help scale the business alongside its organic development plan, central to which is a partnering strategy that ranges from informal relationships, through to minority investments and, as is the case with VCTC, majority acquisitions.
Advising MRN on the acquisition of VCTC was Corporate Finance Advisor, RG Corporate Finance (RGCF), led by CF Partner Nick Johnson, with support from Tom Cosby, Sam Shield and Euan Mulholland. Legal advice was provided by Squire Patton Boggs, led by Partner Paul Mann, supported by James Thompson, Emma Perez, Indy Bening, Matt Smith and Simran Basran.
VCTC was advised by Capsticks.
Graham Wylie, Executive Chairman of MRN, said: “VCTC brings a proven track record of high-quality delivery and a commitment to innovation that aligns perfectly with MRN’s mission. This acquisition is a testament to our strategic approach to scaling our operations while maintaining the high standards that have made us a leader in community-based trials. By combining our strengths, we are better positioned to expand internationally and deliver innovative patient-centric solutions that transform patient recruitment and retention in trials worldwide.”
Helen Shaw, Co-founder of VCTC, said: “This is an exciting milestone for VCTC, as joining forces with MRN provides us with the resources and global platform needed to take our business to the next level. Together, we can build on the incredible progress we’ve achieved over the past three years, delivering flexible, patient-focused services that set new benchmarks for clinical research. MRN’s experience and vision will be invaluable as we expand our reach and enhance our offerings.”
Nick Johnson, CF Partner at RGCF, said: “MRN continues to demonstrate its leadership in the global clinical trials market with a clear strategy combining organic growth and strategic acquisitions like VCTC. This exciting partnership highlights MRN’s commitment to working with highly innovative and groundbreaking organisations that share its vision for patient-centric solutions that will help positively transform the clinical trials sector. By integrating VCTC into its operations, MRN will strengthen its position as the leading player in shaping the future of decentralised clinical trials, bringing greater value to both patients and sponsors.”