Proscribe acquired by Envision Pharma Group

Envision Pharma Group expands into Asia-Pacific with Proscribe acquisition

Envision Pharma Group, a global leader in technology-driven solutions and scientific communication, has announced an exciting milestone—its acquisition of ProScribe, a renowned medical writing company based in Queensland, Australia. This marks Envision’s very first acquisition in the Asia-Pacific region, signaling a significant step in its global expansion strategy. While the financial details of the deal remain undisclosed, the impact of this acquisition is clear.

What is ProScribe?

Founded in Australia, ProScribe offers specialised medical writing services to biopharmaceutical companies, medical device firms, and academic institutions across Australia, China, and Japan. ProScribe is known for its commitment to ethical and transparent dissemination of scientific and medical data, making it a natural fit within Envision’s portfolio of companies.

Joining the Envision family

ProScribe will now become the fifth Scientific Solutions division within Envision Pharma Group, joining the ranks of Envision, Evidence, Excel, and Engage. The leadership of ProScribe remains strong, with founders Professor Karen Woolley and Dr. Mark Woolley continuing to guide their expert team of medical writers under the new ownership.

Strengthening global reach via M&A

Envision Pharma Group’s co-founder, Brian Hepburn, emphasised the strategic significance of this acquisition. With ProScribe onboard, Envision is better positioned to provide comprehensive global services, with dedicated resources now spanning three continents—North America, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region.

A strategic move backed by Halifax Group

Since 2013, Halifax Group, Envision's private equity partner, has played a key role in its growth. They underscored the importance of the Asia-Pacific region as a crucial hub for the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. This acquisition further cements Envision’s position as a leader in global scientific communication and technology solutions.

Envision Pharma Group’s acquisition of ProScribe signals a new chapter of global growth, bringing together complementary expertise and expanding their reach into the rapidly evolving Asia-Pacific market.

Mark Sapsford advised the shareholders of Proscribe on the sale of the business to Envision.

The fairytale business sale: How we sold to a global leader

Karen and Mark Woolley, co-founders of Brisbane-based medical communications agency Proscribe, share the story behind their company’s sale to global healthcare communications leader Envision Pharma Group in 2014.

They reflect on the smooth sale process and highlight the invaluable role played by their M&A advisor, Mark Sapsford, in maximising the value of the deal. Karen describes the acquisition as a "fairytale business sale," with both the buyer and seller achieving great outcomes.

Mark Sapsford advised the shareholders of Proscribe on the sale of the business to Envision.

Client feedback

“They say, ‘don’t start a business without an exit strategy’ and we say, ‘don’t start your exit strategy without Mark Sapsford!’.

"It's a true pleasure to provide a reference for Mark. We hope our brief story below contributes to your decision to partner with Mark. It will be one of the best decisions of your business career.

"In 2013, after a careful consideration of international business brokers to assist us with the sale of our company, we selected Mark Sapsford.

"Mark was based in the UK, but the time zone difference was never a problem. Mark was very flexible in meeting with us and always sounded enthusiastic to speak with us…even on those early morning calls!

"Mark used his considerable experience to carefully guide us through the entire sales process. His welcoming and reassuring nature and his expertise and experience made the process relatively stress free and, dare we say it, enjoyable!

"Initially, he helped us prepare our company for the sale, ensuring the content and presentation of the documentation was at an appropriate international standard.

"He also provided practical advice on how to manage our day-to-day business activities, while also preparing our business for sale.

"Mark searched for and pre-qualified a large number of suitable and interested international acquirers. We knew Mark would be an impressive ambassador for our company. Mark then supported us and negotiated on our behalf through a series of meetings we had with our short list of acquirers in New York and London. Following offers from 3 potential and highly desirable acquirers, Mark helped us select a final UK buyer and supported us during the completion process.

"We were exceptionally pleased with the outcome, with our company joining a global industry-leader based in the UK.

"We would highly recommend Mark if you are looking for a person with the integrity to gain and earn your trust and with the business expertise, networks and processes to ensure a successful sale.”

Mark & Karen Woolley, co-founders

Proscribe

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