As part of the agreement, Merial will retain the approximately 200 Merck Barceloneta employees, currently employed at this formulation and packaging site.

The proposed transaction requires approval from the United States Federal Trade Commission.

If approved, the acquisition will allow Merial to expand its global manufacturing operations and make use of the site's expertise in chewables' manufacturing technology.

"The Barceloneta manufacturing operation aligns well with Sanofi and Merial's global business and manufacturing strategies," said Merial's CEO and Sanofi's EVP Mr Carsten Hellmann. "This addition to Merial's global manufacturing network, which spans nine countries, enables Merial to further extend its global production capabilities to deliver high-quality and innovative medicines that enhance the health and well-being of animals. We look forward to assuming responsibility for this global production site and welcoming its experienced employees to Merial."

The formulation and packaging operations of the site were put up for sale by Merck. The Barceloneta production facility has been involved in and will maintain responsibility for manufacturing and packaging Merial's industry-leading Heartgard and Heartgard Plus products.