The Swedish contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) NorthX Biologics has secured a significant growth investment from U.S.-based private equity firm Signet Healthcare Partners. This strategic funding will fuel NorthX's ambitious expansion plans, particularly in the United States market.
The investment, completed through a new issue of shares, brings specialized pharmaceutical services expertise to NorthX's leadership structure. As part of the agreement, James Gale, Managing Director at Signet Healthcare Partners, will join the NorthX Biologics Board of Directors.
"We are delighted to welcome Signet Healthcare Partners as a shareholder. With their significant experience in pharma services, they are an excellent complement to NorthX Biologics and are well positioned to support our journey," said Janet Hoogstraate, Chief Executive Officer of NorthX Biologics.
Strategic Growth Initiatives
The capital infusion will support several key growth initiatives for NorthX Biologics, including:
- Enhancement of existing manufacturing facilities
- Expansion of service offerings across the biologics spectrum
- Strengthening commercial presence in the United States
- Accelerating global market penetration
Thomas Eldered, Chairman of NorthX Biologics and Flerie, emphasized the strategic value of the partnership: "With Signet Healthcare Partners, we gain another strong owner who brings extensive experience in developing fast-growing biopharmaceutical companies. I look forward to welcoming James to the board and working together with Signet to continue the global expansion of NorthX Biologics."
Specialized Biologics Manufacturing Capabilities
NorthX Biologics has established itself as a specialized CDMO with over 30 years of GMP production experience. The company offers comprehensive manufacturing services for complex biologics, including:
- Recombinant proteins
- Viral vaccines
- Cell therapies
- Plasmid DNA and mRNA
- Advanced biologics
These capabilities span both microbial and mammalian manufacturing systems, with additional expertise in nucleic acids, advanced therapies, and aseptic fill-finish operations.
The company serves a diverse global customer base of biopharmaceutical and biotech companies, supporting projects from early development through commercial GMP manufacturing. In 2021, NorthX was recognized as a national innovation hub for advanced therapeutics and vaccines in Sweden.
Strategic Alignment with Market Trends
James Gale, Managing Director at Signet Healthcare Partners, highlighted the strategic rationale behind the investment: "We are excited to invest in NorthX Biologics to support its ambitious growth strategy. NorthX Biologics' differentiated capabilities across microbial and mammalian manufacturing systems, nucleic acids, advanced therapies and aseptic fill-finish are a strong match with the evolving needs of the global biopharma market."
Gale added, "Together with Flerie, as a significant shareholder in NorthX Biologics, we look forward to helping accelerate NorthX Biologics commercial strategy while supporting its broader global vision."
Ownership Structure and Transaction Details
Following the transaction, Flerie remains the majority shareholder of NorthX Biologics. Financial terms of the investment were not disclosed.
Setterwalls served as legal advisor to NorthX Biologics for the transaction, while Advokatfirman Delphi and Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton provided legal counsel to Signet Healthcare Partners.
The investment represents a significant milestone in NorthX Biologics' growth trajectory as it continues to position itself as a leading manufacturer in the cell and gene therapy space and a partner of choice for innovative drug development companies worldwide.
