Reed Smith has advised leading international specialty pharma company Meda on its acquisition of Rottapharm | Madaus (Rottapharm) for a consideration of €2.275 billion. Rottapharm is a branded specialty pharma company based in Italy and owned by the Rovati family.

The deal is expected to close in Q4 2014 following customary competition approvals. Following completion of the transaction, the Rovati family will own 9% of Meda.

John Wilkinson, Reed Smith life sciences partner, commented:

“This deal falls into the sweet spot of our dedicated international life sciences practice. We have the experience, global reach and sector knowledge to help our clients deliver their strategic priorities. We have enjoyed working with the Meda team on this deal to create a leading European specialty pharma company.”

The Reed Smith team, led by partners John Wilkinson and Nicola Maguire, advised on all aspects of the transaction with support from Gianni, Origoni, Grippo, Cappelli & Partners on Italia law and Lindahl on Swedish law. Pavesi Gitti Verzoni advised Rottapharm.