Global life sciences leader Thermo Fisher Scientific has announced an agreement to sell its microbiology business to European private equity firm Astorg for approximately $1.075 billion. The move is part of Thermo Fisher’s ongoing strategy to streamline its portfolio and focus on high growth, high margin segments within the life sciences and diagnostics space.

The divestment includes a well established microbiology division that provides culture media, reagents, and diagnostic solutions widely used in pharmaceutical manufacturing, clinical laboratories, and food safety testing. This business has been a key player in supporting microbial detection and quality assurance processes across industries, particularly in healthcare and biopharma.

For Astorg, the acquisition represents a strategic investment in a resilient and essential segment of the healthcare value chain. The firm is expected to leverage its expertise in scaling healthcare and life sciences businesses to drive future growth, innovation, and operational expansion of the microbiology unit. The deal aligns with Astorg’s investment philosophy of partnering with market leading companies that demonstrate strong fundamentals and long term growth potential.

Thermo Fisher, on the other hand, continues to sharpen its focus on core areas such as specialty diagnostics, bioproduction, and advanced analytical instruments. The transaction is anticipated to enhance the company’s financial flexibility while enabling reinvestment into innovation driven segments, including precision medicine, genomics, and digital laboratory solutions.

The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals and is expected to be completed within the coming months. This development highlights ongoing consolidation trends in the global life sciences industry, as companies realign portfolios to capitalize on emerging opportunities and evolving market demands.