Lonza has signed an agreement to acquire Redberry, a French company specialising in rapid microbiology testing using solid-phase cytometry (SPC). The acquisition will expand Lonza’s bioscience testing portfolio and strengthen its capabilities in pharmaceutical quality control.

Redberry’s SPC-based technology enables faster and more precise microbial detection, helping pharmaceutical manufacturers accelerate sterility and bioburden testing while maintaining compliance. Its Red One platform delivers rapid and automated microbiological analysis designed to reduce turnaround times in quality control laboratories.

In April 2025, Redberry announced the validation of its Red One sterility testing method, which produces results in four days compared with the 14-day incubation required by traditional tests. The faster turnaround supports manufacturers aiming to speed up product release without compromising safety standards.

Lonza said the acquisition will complement its existing portfolio of endotoxin detection and QC testing services used across biopharmaceutical production. The integration of Redberry’s technology is expected to support CDMO customers working with short shelf-life biologics and cell and gene therapies, where time-to-patient is critical.

Mike Goetter, head of bioscience, specialised modalities at Lonza, said: “Our agreement to acquire Redberry marks a significant milestone in our commitment to advancing QC microbiology solutions in line with growing industry demand for rapid testing platforms. By integrating this cutting-edge technology into our portfolio, we are empowering customers with faster and simpler tools that lower compliance costs.” He added that the move will help to ensure “right first time delivery” and improve process efficiency across biologics and advanced therapy production.

Redberry chief executive officer Jonathan Macron said joining Lonza would allow the company to expand the impact of its innovations: “Since its creation, Redberry has been dedicated to delivering faster, simpler, and reliable microbiological control. By combining Red One with Lonza’s global reach and expertise, we will scale our innovation to meet the growing needs of pharmaceutical and industrial manufacturers, accelerate product release and benefit patients worldwide.”

The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025, subject to standard closing conditions. Lonza said the acquisition is not financially material and will not affect its financial guidance.