Benchmark Holdings completes sale of FishVet for £14m

The sale comprises Benchmark's veterinary and diagnostic services activities in the UK, Ireland, Norway and Chile. The final consideration will depend on certain final costs to be borne by Benchmark.

The transaction is another step in Benchmark's strategy to exit non-core areas and focus on its key disciplines in the global aquaculture markets.

The sale of FishVet together with the sale of Improve International announced on June 23, raised in aggregate around £27.25m including £3.25m in deferred consideration, in line with expectations.

The sale significantly strengthens the group's financial position and liquidity. To date, the company has sold or exited seven businesses generating up to £30.3m in cash proceeds including £3.75m in deferred consideration.

The Yorkshire company continues to progress the review of its vaccine strategy and the exit from its activities in companion animal products.

Trond Williksen, CEO of Benchmark Holdings, said: "I am very pleased to announce this transaction, the proceeds of which together with those from the sale of Improve International last week, are in line with our expectations.

"These disposals represent a significant step forward in our strategy to become a streamlined, profitable business focused on our key areas of competency.

"The FishVet team is a highly talented group. I would like to thank every member of the team and wish them success in the future."