United Drug is a healthcare services provider. The Company has four segments: Pharma Wholesale, Supply Chain Services, Medical and Scientific, and Contract Sales and Marketing Services.United Drug provides commercialisation solutions to international healthcare companies. We specialise in supply chain, packaging, sales and marketing, medical and regulatory services. We operate in five major international markets, and employ over 7,000 people around the world

http://www.united-drug.com/home/

14 November 2012

United Drug plc

Preliminary Announcement of Results

Year ended 30 September 2012


http://www.moneyam.com/action/news/showArticle?id=4483840

Pharmexx acquisition completes

http://www.moneyam.com/action/news/showArticle?id=4481853

Those solid full year figures from Ireland based drugs wholesaler United Drug (UDG)
demonstrate the value of diversification,as the group- which is tackling austerity measures in Ireland - shifted into services and packaging for US pharmaceutical companies. That helped adjust operating profit rise 10% year on year to 84.4m euro
(£67.5m), with US operations contributing almost a third.
Broker Peel Hunt left its forecasts unchanged and expects adjusted pre-tax profit for 2013 of 75.6m euro, giving EPS of 25.6c. The full benefit of the Pharmexx acquisition will provide a further boost next year.

http://www.edisoninvestmentresearch.co.uk/researchreports/UnitedDrug191112QV.pdf

Good 5% rise today

:-))

United Drug can cure ills


Ben Griffiths: Ireland-based healthcare services firm United Drug has recently shifted its listing from Dublin to London. With its near-£570million market capitalisation, the company was propelled straight into the FTSE 250 index in the last quarterly review.


United Drug has enjoyed a successful 2012 with growth dominated by an increased focus overseas. The shift – fuelled by a raft of recent acquisitions – means 70 per cent of earnings are now derived from outside Ireland. The stock has also gained around a quarter after it was announced that United Drug was moving its listing.


The shares, which hit a 52-week high of 287.25p earlier this month, are trading well above February’s low of 157.75p and are on a price/earnings ratio of 20 times, according to Reuters.


Analysts are hopeful that the trend for bigger pharmaceutical companies to outsource some non-core functions to cut costs will continue to benefit United Drug in 2013.


Among those analysts covering the stock, Jefferies rates it a buy along with Goodbody Stockbrokers, while Peel Hunt cut its rating from buy to hold in November. M&G is the biggest institutional investor with 14.7 per cent of stock.


Read more: http://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/markets/article-2254395/2013-SHARE-TIPS-The-Mails-city-reporters-reveal-picks-coming-year.html#ixzz2GXDHB9JF
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The Daily Mail

■ Investment Extra: Dan Hyde says some market experts are bullish about prospects for equities this year, with professional investors suggesting stocks such as Howden Joinery Group (Last IC rating: Hold, 1 Mar), United Drug (Last IC rating: Buy, 14 Nov) and Dragon Oil (Last IC rating: Hold, 14 Aug) are worth watching.

Investec has initiated coverage of healthcare services provide United Drug with a 'sell' rating and 240p target price, labelling the group's recent share price rise as 'artificial'.

"United Drug's share price has risen by c.60% since it announced its intention to seek a sole Premium Listing in the UK. We think this news, and not business fundamentals, has artificially driven up the share price."

Interim Management Statement
RNS
RNS Number : 6485X
United Drug PLC
12 February 2013





UNITED DRUG PLC



INTERIM MANAGEMENT STATEMENT



12 February 2013: United Drug plc ("United Drug" or "the Group"), a leading international provider of healthcare services, provides the following Interim Management Statement covering the period from 1 October 2012 to the date of this announcement.



Trading across the Group during the period has been strong. Group revenues and profits for the three months to 31 December 2012 are ahead of the same period last year. Much of this growth has come in our international operations with the businesses outside of Ireland contributing in excess of 70% of group profits.



During the 2012 financial year, the Group announced five acquisitions. Four of the five businesses acquired have now been fully integrated. Final competition clearance for the fifth, the acquisition of Pharmexx GmbH (a multi-country contract sales outsourcing business) was received in November 2012 and the acquisition completed on 20 November 2012. Since its completion the Group has been implementing a detailed integration plan to standardise processes and procedures in the acquired business. Pharmexx has traded ahead of expectations throughout this period. The integration is progressing satisfactorily and will result in some restructuring costs being incurred to bring further efficiencies.



Quarter to 31 December 2012





SALES, MARKETING & MEDICAL



The division provides sales, marketing and medical services to multinational healthcare companies. Trading during the period has been good with revenues and profits ahead of the same period last year.



During the 2012 financial year our sales and marketing proposition was expanded significantly both organically and through acquisition. As mentioned, the integration of Pharmexx is nearing completion while Watermeadow, Drug Safety Alliance and Synopia, are all trading in line with or ahead of expectations and have been successfully integrated into this division.



The last financial year also saw the establishment of a joint arrangement in Japan to provide contract sales outsourcing services in the second largest pharmaceutical market in the world. This business has already had a number of contract wins, facilitating break-even earlier than originally forecast. This reinforces our views of the potential for this market.



United Drug is now one of the leading global providers of sales, marketing and medical services to the healthcare industry. Today those services are provided to over 200 multinational companies in more than 20 countries employing in excess of 4,000 people.









HEALTHCARE SUPPLY CHAIN



The division provides distribution services to healthcare companies and pharmacies in the UK and Ireland, employing over 1,000 people. Trading during the period has been good with revenues and profits ahead of the same period last year.



In our wholesale business revenues and profits are ahead of the same period last year in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. This is a result of continued market share gains, helping to offset austerity measures, combined with operating efficiencies driven by on-going cost saving initiatives. Investment in additional automation will help to drive further cost savings and enable us to service the markets more efficiently.



Our Medical & Scientific business continues to trade very strongly with revenues and profits well ahead of the same period last year. Recent new business wins, both in the UK and Ireland, should see this performance continue for the remainder of the financial year.



Our pharmaceutical "specials" business in the UK continues to be impacted by the introduction of a drug tariff on the most popular products in this market. Revenues and profits for this business are below the same period last year. The drug tariff was first introduced twelve months ago so its on-going impact is reducing and the tariff has helped to remove uncertainty from this market. This together with new revenue streams being developed means that the longer term outlook for this business remains positive.





PACKAGING & SPECIALTY



The division provides outsourced packaging and clinical trials materials services for healthcare manufacturers in the US and Europe, employing over 1,000 people. The division also provides speciality homecare and distribution services in the UK and Ireland. Trading during the period has been strong with revenues and profits ahead of the same period last year.



Our US commercial packaging business, Sharp, continues to trade strongly and win business in a market that is seeing an increased demand for top quality outsourced packaging services. Revenues and profits in the business for the period are well ahead of last year.



Our European commercial packaging business is trading behind last year. However, with a number of new business wins that will start contributing later in the year and a reduced cost base, the outlook for this business continues to be positive. The European business is in the process of being re-branded, to maximise cross-selling opportunities between the US and Europe and leverage the strong equity of our existing brand. At the same time we are reviewing the optimal infrastructure configuration required to support the long-term growth of the European business.



In August 2012 the Group acquired Bilcare Global Clinical Supplies. This business has now been re-branded Sharp Clinical and adds clinical trials packaging, logistics and supply chain management services to our commercial packaging offering. These businesses are highly complementary and the acquired business has been successfully integrated with our commercial packaging offering.



Outlook



Based on the strong trading performance for the year to date and the outlook for the remainder of the year, the Group expects constant currency adjusted diluted earnings per share for the year to 30 September 2013, before non-recurring costs associated with acquisition activity and restructuring, to be between 5% and 8% ahead of last year.



The Group also expects to deliver another strong cash flow performance in the year, which coupled with modest debt levels relative to earnings and significant financing facilities available leaves the Group well positioned to support its future growth objectives both organically and through acquisition.

Not in his one, for those interested -

Half Yearly Report

http://www.moneyam.com/action/news/showArticle?id=4591174

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------United Drug: Jeffferies moves target price from 310p to 340p and leaves its buy recommendation unaltered.

Closed up 9.43%

Investec lifts United Drug to reduce from sell, target raised from 240p to 320p

United Drug PLC (UDG:LSE) set a new 52-week high during today's trading session when it reached 346.01. Over this period, the share price is up 114.37%.

Wow!..impressive performance since last Sept. nice one DC..well done!

Thanks sh,

United Drug acquires Expansis in Spain

RNS


RNS Number : 6879K

United Drug PLC

01 August 2013










UNITED DRUG PLC



United Drug acquires Spanish contract sales organisation



1August 2013: United Drug plc ("Group"), a leading international provider of healthcare services, announces that it has reached an agreement to acquire Expansis, a Spanish contract sales organisation, for a total consideration of up to €12m. The deal is expected to complete in September, subject to clearance by the Spanish competition authorities.



Transaction highlights



· Expansis is a leading contract sales business headquartered in Madrid, which provides outsourced services to a wide range of pharmaceutical companies in Spain. The business was established in 1995 and currently employs 280 people.



· Expansis is complementary to the Pharmexx Spain business unit, which the Group acquired as part of its acquisition in 2012 of Pharmexx (the global Contract Sales Organisation). It is intended to merge the two businesses, subject to approval from the Spanish competition authorities; however, until this concludes the two businesses will operate independently. Expansis will become part of the Sales, Marketing and Medical division of United Drug (which is known as the Ashfield division).



· The acquisition will be financed from the Group's internal resources and existing debt facilities and is expected to be earnings accretive in year one.



Commenting on the announcement, Liam FitzGerald, Chief Executive of United Drug said:



"Expansis has an impressive track record, is well established in the Spanish market and will further strengthen United Drug's presence in this important market. With our combined resources and expertise, we look forward to building a market leading contract sales business in Spain."



ENDS

Interim Management Statement

http://www.moneyam.com/action/news/showArticle?id=4646347

Numis ups target price from 375p to 400p, while downgrading to hold.

Acquisition of healthcare marketing business

RNS


RNS Number : 8123M

United Drug PLC

30 August 2013








United Drug acquires Canadian multi-channel healthcare marketing business



30 August 2013: United Drug plc ("Group"), a leading international provider of healthcare services, announces that it has reached an agreement to acquire the healthcare multi-channel marketing, call centre and sample management businesses from Medical Communications Group Inc. ("MCG"), for a total consideration of CAD$15.5m [c€11.2m]. The deal is expected to complete in the next six weeks, subject to the fulfilment of usual closing considerations.



Transaction highlights



· MCG is a leading multi-channel healthcare marketing business headquartered in Montreal, which provides outsourced services to over 60 pharmaceutical and healthcare companies in Canada.



· MCG specialises in multi-channel marketing, communications and sample and promotional material management services. The business was established in 1986 and currently employs c.60 people.



· United Drug has acquired MCG to build out its commercial proposition in Canada. This follows the acquisition of Pharmexx Canada, as part of its acquisition in 2012 of Pharmexx (the global Contract Sales Organisation). MCG will become part of the Sales, Marketing and Medical division of United Drug (which is known as the Ashfield division) and the existing management of MCG will remain with the business post-acquisition.



· The acquisition will be financed from the Group's internal resources and existing debt facilities and is expected to be earnings accretive in year one.



Commenting on the announcement, Liam FitzGerald, Chief Executive of United Drug said:



"The acquisition of MCG is another example of United Drug bolting on complementary businesses to build scale, where we already have an existing market presence. MCG has established a reputation over many years as a highly innovative provider of promotional services and the MCG expertise in multi-channel marketing complements the field based capabilities of Pharmexx. With our combined resources and expertise we look forward to building a market leading service offering in Canada."



ENDS

Interim Management Statement

RNS


RNS Number : 4755O

UDG Healthcare Public Limited Co.

07 August 2014






UDG HEALTHCARE PLC



INTERIM MANAGEMENT STATEMENT



7 August 2014: UDG Healthcare plc ("the Group"), a leading international provider of healthcare services, issues the following Interim Management Statement covering the period from 1 April 2014 to the date of this announcement.



Nine months to 30 June 2014

Group revenues and adjusted operating profits1 for the nine months to 30 June 2014 are ahead of the same period last year. Profit growth in the nine months to June has been driven by the strong performance of the Ashfield Commercial and Medical Services division (Ashfield).



Quarter to 30 June 2014

Performance for the quarter to 30 June 2014 has been good. Group revenues and profits for the three months are ahead of the same period last year, with Ashfield becoming the largest profit contributing division for the first time.



Ashfield Commercial and Medical Services

Ashfield has leading market positions in the provision of contract sales outsourcing, healthcare communications and medical services to pharmaceutical manufacturers in major markets including North America, the UK and continental Europe.



Trading during the three months to June has been strong with revenues and profits well ahead of the same period last year. Profit growth was particularly strong within the healthcare communications businesses due to a combination of organic growth and acquisitions. The North American business again performed well and the greenfield Japanese business moved into profitability in the quarter.



In March, we acquired the KnowledgePoint360 business strengthening our existing offering in healthcare communications. Its integration is going to plan and the business has performed well since acquisition.



In July, we acquired Galliard and Nyxeon which adds scientific public relations to the range of services we offer in healthcare communications.



Supply Chain Services

Supply Chain Services provides logistics services to healthcare companies, pharmacies and hospitals in the UK and Ireland. In February 2014, we disposed of the Specials business, which has adversely impacted the profitability of the division. Despite challenging market conditions, trading in the three months to June has been solid, with profits flat on the prior period, despite the sale of the Specials business.



The impact of generic substitution in the Republic of Ireland has been as expected in the quarter although the adverse impact of "direct to pharmacy" schemes has been higher than anticipated in this market.



Sharp Packaging Services

Sharp Packaging Services is a leading international provider of pharmaceutical packaging services with facilities in the US and Europe. Overall trading during the quarter has been strong and profits are well ahead of the prior period.



Positive momentum in Sharp US has continued from the second quarter with both revenues and profits well ahead of the prior period. Sharp Europe made a small operating loss in the three months to June. There continues to be a healthy pipeline of new business across both the US and Europe.



We continue to add further capacity to our packaging facilities in the US to meet this increasing demand. The first phase of the capacity expansion programme at our Allentown facility in Pennsylvania was completed earlier this year and will provide 10% extra capacity. The Board has recently approved a second phase of expansion to this facility which will add an additional 25% to our US capacity. This project is expected to be phased over a 4-5 year timeframe, with anticipated investment costs of €35m.



Investment for future growth

We have continued to make significant investments in our information technology systems. We have also continued to broaden our management depth and expertise across the Group as we expand internationally. In particular, we have enhanced our central information technology, compliance and marketing functions.



Outlook

Based on the underlying trading performance we reiterate our previous guidance that we expect constant currency adjusted diluted earnings per share1 for the year to 30 September 2014 to be between 5% and 9% ahead of last year.



The Group also expects to deliver a good underlying cashflow performance for the year.



1 before the amortisation of acquired intangible assets and non-recurring costs associated with acquisition and divestment activity





Conference Call

UDG Healthcare plc will host a conference call for investors and analysts at 8.00am (GMT) today, 7 August 2014 to discuss this statement. The dial-in details are as follows:




Standard International Access

+44 (0) 20 3003 2666


UK Toll Free

0808 109 0700


Ireland

+353 (0) 1 800 930 488


Password

UDG Healthcare




A playback facility will be available for seven days on +44 (0) 20 8196 1998 (UK and International) or + 353 (0) 1 486 4035 (Ireland). The access code for the replay will be 9276511.



2014 Reporting Timetable



The Group will issue preliminary results for the 12 months to 30 September 2014 on 20 November 2014.



Forward Looking Statements



This Statement contains certain forward-looking statements. They represent expectations for the Group's business, and involve risks and uncertainties. The Group has based these forward-looking statements on current expectations and projections about future events. The Group believes that expectations and assumptions with respect to these forward-looking statements are reasonable. However, because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which in some cases are beyond the Group's control, actual results or performance may differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements.



ENDS

Preliminary Results



2014 Financial highlights





· Adjusted operating profit growth of 9% in the year.

· Adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS) increased by 8%.

· Net debt/EBITDA reduced from 2.13 times to 1.89 times.

· Proposed 7% increase in final dividend to 7.43 cent per share, giving a total dividend for the year of 10.12 cent per share, a 6% increase on 2013.


· Conclusion of an updated bank debt facility for €210 million giving the Group access to committed funding until November 2019.






2014 Strategic & operating highlights





· Very strong growth continued in the Ashfield Commercial & Medical Services division, with operating profits up 32% in the year, including acquisitions.

· Ashfield became a global leader in healthcare communications with the acquisition of KnowledgePoint360 (€106 million) and Galliard (€16 million).

· Operating profit in the Sharp Packaging Services division increased 22% on the prior year, as the European business made a modest profit in the year.

· Significant capacity expansion initiated for Sharp US.

· Disposal of 50% interest in UniDrug to our joint venture partner Alliance Boots for €82.4 million and disposal of the Specials businesses for €27.4 million. Both disposals will enable greater focus on developing the Group's core businesses.

· Organic growth and acquisitions resulted in the Ashfield Commercial & Medical Services division becoming the Group's largest operating profit division in 2014.



http://www.moneyam.com/action/news/showArticle?id=4926852

2 Dec N+1 Singer 395.00 Buy

IC The ftse 350 review - Healthcare equipment and servs


Favourite - This sector is full of quality businesses, which can make the ratings seem punchy. UDG Healthcare, even though the shares took off towards the end of 2014, UDG has boosted growth and carved out a niche position in the healthcare sector.

1st Quarter Trading Update
RNS
RNS Number : 8340D
UDG Healthcare Public Limited Co.
03 February 2015

UDG HEALTHCARE PLC



FIRST QUARTER TRADING UPDATE



Strong Start to the Year and Full Year Guidance Issued





3 February 2015:

UDG Healthcare plc ("the Group"), a leading international provider of healthcare services issues the following trading update covering the period from 1 October to 31 December 2014. The company will hold its Annual General Meeting in Dublin at 12.00pm today.



Quarter to 31 December 2014



Group



The Group has made a strong start to the year with trading for the quarter to 31 December 2014 well ahead of the prior year.



Ashfield Commercial & Medical Services



Trading has again been strong, with operating profit well ahead of the same period last year. Operating profit growth was particularly strong within the healthcare communications business, which benefitted from the acquisitions made during 2014. As anticipated, the US medical services business (pharmacovigilance and "market access") had a weaker performance relative to a very strong comparable quarter, whilst the European CSO business performed strongly in the period.



Supply Chain Services



Operating profits in United Drug have been impacted broadly as anticipated by the recent changes in the Irish wholesale market and are behind the same period last year. The 2014 disposal of the Specials business and our interest in the UniDrug joint venture has reduced the overall profitability of the division for the quarter. Aquilant performed well in the period with operating profit ahead of 2014. Overall, the trading of this division was satisfactory in the quarter.



Sharp Packaging Services



Sharp had a strong start to the year with the positive Sharp US performance in the second half of 2014 continuing into 2015. Sharp Europe improved slightly but continues to face challenges. Divisional operating profits in the first quarter are significantly ahead of the prior year.

During the quarter we initiated the second phase of the capacity expansion programme at our Allentown facility in Pennsylvania, with the building acquisition now completed. We anticipate this will become operational in late 2016.



Restructuring Costs



The Group anticipates recognising an exceptional charge in 2015. The charge relates to: restructuring of the healthcare communications business following acquisitions in FY 2014, restructuring within the United Drug supply chain business which was carried out in the first quarter and further cost reductions through restructuring across other parts of the Group.





Outlook



Based on the underlying trading performance to date and an expected 2% 2015 restructuring benefit, we expect constant currency adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS)1 for the year to 30 September 2015 to be between 5% and 8% ahead of last year. If current exchange rates are sustained for the year, reported EPS will be higher than this range.



The Group reports in euro and its profits benefit from the strengthening US dollar and pound sterling exchange rates as over 70% of Group profits are now in these currencies. The average 2014 exchange rates were €1 = £0.82 and $1.36.



The Group also expects to deliver a good underlying cashflow performance for the year. When combined with modest debt levels relative to earnings and significant financing facilities, this continues to leave the Group well positioned to support its future growth objectives both organically and through acquisition.





[1] before the amortisation of acquired intangible assets, exceptional charges and non-recurring costs associated with acquisition and divestment activity

//////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

3 Feb Berenberg 425.00 Hold
3 Feb Jefferies... 400.00 Buy
3 Feb N+1 Singer N/A Buy
3 Feb Investec 387.00 Hold

UDG Healthcare hikes earnings guidance

Tue, 03 February 2015

UDG Healthcare hikes earnings guidance



UDG Healthcare Public Limited Company Quote more

Price: 413.80

Chg: 17.10

Chg %: 4.31%

Date: 16:20



FTSE 250 Quote


Price: 16,563.41 Chg: 207.85 Chg %: 1.27% Date: 16:20

Irish medical outsourcing group UDG Healthcare has raised its earnings targets for 2015 after a strong first quarter.
The FTSE 250 company said, based on trading in the three months to the end of December and what it now thinks will be a 2% benefit from last year's restructuring, it expects earnings per share (EPS) will be at least between 5% and 8% ahead of last year's, and perhaps even higher if current exchange rates prevail.

Broker Berenberg said by its estimates, the new earnings guidance implied an adjusted EPS growth range of 10-13% at current exchange rates, which was circa 5-8% ahead of current consensus forecasts.

The Ashfield business process outsourcing division, which provides everything from sales and market research to nurse training and pharmacovigilance, continued to enjoyed strong trading and operating profits were said to be "well ahead" of the same period last year, particularly thanks to the healthcare communications business after two acquisitions last year.

Sharp packaging had a strong start to the year, but the embattled supply chain arm was behind the same period last year, hampered by recent changes in the Irish wholesale market, and expected to endure a difficult year.

UDG Healthcare PLC (UDG:LSE) set a new 52-week high during today's trading session when it reached 417.50. Over this period, the share price is up 19.91%.

Director Deals - UDG Healthcare PLC (UDG)
BFN
Brendan McAtamney, Executive Director, bought 50,000 shares in the company on the 3rd February 2015 at a price of 410.00p. The Director now holds 50,000 shares.

Story provided by StockMarketWire.com
Director deals data provided by www.directorsholdings.com
/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

4 Feb N+1 Singer 410.00 Hold

10 Feb Jefferies... 476.00 Buy

Half yearly report

14 May Berenberg 515.00 Hold
14 May Investec N/A Hold
14 May N+1 Singer 550.00 Hold

Questor-share-tip-UDG-Healthcare-changes-profit-gears.

31 Jul Davy Research N/A Outperform

Q3 Trading Statement
RNS
RNS Number : 2312V
UDG Healthcare Public Limited Co.
06 August 2015





UDG HEALTHCARE PLC



THIRD QUARTER TRADING UPDATE



Strong Trading in the Third Quarter and Full Year Guidance Reiterated





6 August 2015:

UDG Healthcare plc ("the Group"), a leading international provider of healthcare services issues the following trading update covering the period from 1 April 2015 to 30 June 2015.





Nine months to 30 June 2015



Group revenues and adjusted operating profits1 for the nine months to 30 June 2015 are significantly ahead of the same period last year. Profit growth in the nine months to June has been driven by the strong performance of both the Sharp Packaging Services division (Sharp) and the Ashfield Commercial & Medical Services division (Ashfield). In addition, reported Group profitability has benefited from currency movements.



Quarter to 30 June 2015



Ashfield Commercial & Medical Services



Trading continues to be strong, with operating profit well ahead of the same quarter last year. The trading performance across Ashfield in the quarter was consistent with the first six months of the year, with robust profit growth in Healthcare Communications and the European commercial businesses.



During the quarter we sold the non-core Speakers Bureau business which we acquired as part of the KnowledgePoint360 acquisition in 2014.



Sharp Packaging Services



Divisional operating profits in the third quarter are significantly ahead of the prior year. The strong Sharp US performance in the first half of 2015 continued into the third quarter as we continue to benefit from increased demand in bottling, biotech and new packaging formats. The expansion of the Allentown campus in Pennsylvania is proceeding on plan, with the first phase of packaging suites due to become operational in the second half of 2016.



Sharp Europe improved on the prior year and made a small trading loss in the period. We continue to re-align the Sharp Europe cost base with current business activity, while maintaining appropriate capacity for expected business growth.

The dispute in respect of the September 2013 demand for $15m under a purported guarantee by Sharp Clinical Services (UK) Limited in relation to a bond issued in 2010 by its previous owner Bilcare Limited, is no longer being pursued by the bondholders, bringing the matter to a satisfactory conclusion.

Supply Chain Services



United Drug performed in line with expectations in the quarter. Aquilant performed well in the period with operating profit ahead of 2015. Overall divisional operating profits were behind the same quarter last year due to the disposal of our interest in the UniDrug joint venture in 2014.





Outlook



We are reiterating our guidance for constant currency adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS)2 for the year to 30 September 2015 of between 7% and 9% ahead of last year.



The average 2014 financial year exchange rates were €1 = £0.8194 and $1.3574. Based on the average exchange rates for the first nine months of fiscal year 2015 of €1 = £0.7518 and $1.1615, the reported EPS growth is expected to be in the range of 18% to 20%, up from the previously guided range of 16% to 18%.



We expect an exceptional charge of approximately €15m in 2015 (€11m of which is a cash charge), at the upper end of our previously guided range of €13m to €15m. The charge primarily relates to the integration of the 2014 acquired healthcare communications business, the closure of Aquilant's UK laboratory distribution business and the re-aligning of Sharp Europe.



The Group also expects to deliver a good underlying cashflow performance for the year. When combined with modest debt levels relative to earnings and significant financing facilities, this continues to leave the Group well positioned to support its future growth objectives both organically and through acquisition.



1 before the amortisation of acquired intangible assets, acquisition costs and exceptional items

2 before the amortisation of acquired intangible assets, acquisition costs and exceptional items (net of tax).

6 Aug N+1 Singer 550.00 Hold
6 Aug Jefferies... 600.00 Buy
6 Aug Goodbody N/A Buy

IC - UDG shares don't boast a cheap rating , but the company does boast enticing prospects . As regulatory change comes closer , it should become increasingly apparent that this is a company in the right place at the right time and share price should benefit.

Proposed sale and leadership transition
RNS
RNS Number : 4779Z
UDG Healthcare Public Limited Co.
18 September 2015



NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION (IN WHOLE OR IN PART) IN, INTO OR FROM ANY JURISDICTION WHERE TO DO SO WOULD CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF THE RELEVANT LAWS OF SUCH JURISDICTION

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

18 September 2015




UDG Healthcare PLC

Proposed Sale of United Drug Supply Chain Businesses and MASTA to McKesson Corporation

Leadership Transition Announced



Key highlights

n UDG Healthcare PLC, a leading international healthcare services provider, announces that it has entered into a conditional agreement for the sale of certain assets, including:

- United Drug Supply Chain Services businesses[1] that form part of UDG Healthcare's Supply Chain Services Division; and

- MASTA Business, which forms part of the Ashfield Commercial & Medical Services Division,

to McKesson, for an aggregate cash consideration of €407.5 million on a cash and debt free basis.

n The Disposal is consistent with Group strategy to focus on its higher growth, higher margin international healthcare services businesses and progresses the Group's transformation to a more focused international healthcare services business

n The Disposed Businesses will be better positioned to prosper under the ownership of McKesson, a leading international wholesale and retail group

n The Continuing Group is extremely well positioned to develop and strengthen existing market positions in Ashfield, Aquilant and Sharp, and capitalise on the increasing demand for their services

n The net proceeds from the Disposal will facilitate increased investment in higher growth areas both organically and via acquisition. A portion of the net proceeds will be used to repay part of the Group's outstanding debt

n Leadership Transition as CEO, Liam FitzGerald, announces plans to retire in March 2016 and Board nominates COO, Brendan McAtamney, as his successor.



Commenting on the Disposal, Peter Gray, Chairman of UDG Healthcare said:

"Today's announcement is the culmination of 15 years of strategic development by the Group. It gives us the resources to continue building our higher margin, higher growth divisions, while placing our legacy United Drug Supply Chain Services business in the ownership of a global leader who will bring new opportunities and strengths to that business, its staff and its customers, to whom we extend our thanks for their long standing loyalty."

The Disposal constitutes a Class 1 transaction for the purpose of the Listing Rules and is conditional upon, inter alia, the approval of Shareholders at an Extraordinary General Meeting and, the approval from the applicable regulatory authorities. The transaction is anticipated to complete by 31 March 2016.

A circular containing further details of the Disposal, including the notice of the Extraordinary General Meeting to seek Shareholders' approval for the Disposal, is expected to be sent to Shareholders shortly. The General Meeting is to be held at 12 noon on 13 October 2015 at The Clyde Court Hotel, Lansdowne Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4, Ireland.

CEO Transition

Following the negotiation of this transaction, Liam FitzGerald, the Group Chief Executive Officer since 2000, has informed the Board that he plans to retire on March 31 2016 after 23 years with Company. Having been aware over the last number of years of Mr. FitzGerald's early retirement aspirations, the Board has been actively involved in succession planning and has nominated Brendan McAtamney, Group Chief Operating Officer since 2013, as his successor.

"It has been my privilege to lead this company for 15 exciting years," said Mr FitzGerald, "and I believe now is the right time for new leadership to take the Company forward. Since 2000 we have been on a journey to transform the Group and move into new higher-growth outsourced pharmaceutical service areas and geographies. Today's announcement marks the completion of that transformation, albeit subject to shareholder approval. It's a good time to pass of the baton to Brendan, and to move to a different phase in my career."

The Board has asked Mr FitzGerald, and he has agreed, after 31 March 2016 to remain as a consultant and a director until 30 September 2016 to support the transition, and to continue to provide his experience to the Company as it invests further in its key services.

"Liam has achieved what very few CEOs have successfully done, and transitioned the Company over a long period and through difficult times from its original core business into new and growing service areas and geographies," said Chairman, Peter Gray. "He has been very transparent with the Board regarding his aspirations, and has ensured we have a strong succession plan in place. Brendan McAtamney, who joined us in 2013 with broad pharmaceutical and international market experience, has been a great addition to the team, and we are delighted to have him ready to step forward for a seamless transition".

Director Deals - UDG Healthcare PLC (UDG)
BFN
Linda Wilding, Non Executive Director, bought 19,304 shares in the company on the 28th September 2015 at a price of 508.00p. The Director now holds 19,304 shares.

Story provided by StockMarketWire.com
Director deals data provided by www.directorsholdings.com

16 Oct Berenberg 515.00 Hold

Trading Statement
RNS
RNS Number : 7010N
UDG Healthcare Public Limited Co.
02 February 2016

UDG HEALTHCARE PLC



FIRST QUARTER TRADING UPDATE



Strong Start to the Year and Full Year Guidance Issued





2 February 2016: UDG Healthcare plc ("the Group"), a leading international provider of healthcare services, issues the following trading update covering the period from 1 October to 31 December 2015. The company will hold its Annual General Meeting in Dublin at 12.00pm today.



Quarter to 31 December 2015



Group



The Group has made a strong start to the financial year with trading for the quarter to 31 December 2015 well ahead of the prior year.



Ashfield Commercial & Medical Services



Trading across the Ashfield division has again been strong, resulting in operating profit for the division being ahead of the same period last year.



Operating profit growth was particularly positive within the US and European commercial businesses, whilst the UK commercial business demonstrated a lower growth profile in its more mature market. The healthcare communications business has again delivered good profit growth in the period.



Sharp Packaging Services



The positive trading momentum in the Sharp US business has continued during the first quarter with operating profits significantly ahead of the prior year. Progress in Sharp Europe continues to be incremental as we re-align the business for future profitability.

The capacity expansion programme at our Allentown facility in Pennsylvania remains on target to open in April 2016, with the first phase of packaging suites becoming operational in the second half of 2016.



Aquilant



Operating profits in Aquilant were slightly ahead of the same quarter last year.



Disposal Update



The disposal of the United Drug Supply Chain and MASTA businesses was approved by shareholders on 13 October 2015. The actual timing of disposal remains subject to competition authority clearance which we continue to expect by June 2016.



United Drug has traded satisfactorily during the quarter.



CEO Transition



Further to our CEO transition announcement on 18 September 2015, the Group announces that the handover has been brought forward and that Liam FitzGerald will now step down as CEO at the AGM to be held later today and Brendan McAtamney will take over as CEO. Mr FitzGerald will continue as a non-executive director as planned until September 2016 and will continue to support the transition of CEO responsibilities and our strategic development efforts on a consulting basis.



Outlook



Based on the underlying trading performance to date, we expect constant currency adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS)1 for the continuing Group2 for the year to 30 September 2016 to be between 6% and 8% ahead of last year's continuing Group EPS of 27.4c.



The Group currently reports in euro and its profits benefit from any strengthening of the US dollar and pound sterling exchange rates as over 90% of the continuing Group's profits are now in these currencies. The average FY15 exchange rates were €1 = £0.74 and $1.15.



The Group also reiterates its dividend guidance for FY16, whereby we expect to continue our long history of dividend growth. As a result, the dividend per share for FY16 should increase over the FY15 dividend of 11c per share.



The Group expects to deliver a good underlying cashflow performance for the year. Modest debt levels and the net proceeds from the United Drug disposal leave the Group in a strong position to support its ongoing growth and expansion, both organically and through acquisition.





1 Before the amortisation of acquired intangible assets, exceptional items and non-recurring costs associated with acquisition and divestment activity.

2 All Group businesses excluding the United Drug Supply Chain and MASTA businesses whose disposal was announced on 18 September 2015.

2 Feb Goodbody N/A Buy
2 Feb Jefferies... 630.00 Buy

Broker Forecast - Berenberg issues a broker note on UDG Healthcare PLC
Berenberg today upgrades its investment rating on UDG Healthcare PLC (LON:UDG) to buy (from hold) and raised its price target to 585p (from 550p). Story provided by StockMarketWire.com

questor-share-tip-udg-healthcare-war-chest-can-accelerate-growth/

3 Jun Berenberg 655.00 Buy

Q3 trading statement

4 Aug Davy Research N/A Outperform
4 Aug Goodbody N/A Buy
4 Aug Numis 675.00 Add

10:30 27/10/2016
Broker Forecast - Liberum Capital issues a broker note on UDG Healthcare PLC
Liberum Capital today initiates coverage of UDG Healthcare PLC (LON:UDG) with a buy investment rating and price target of 750p. Story provided by StockMarketWire.com

Broker Forecast - Berenberg issues a broker note on UDG Healthcare PLC
BFN
Berenberg today reaffirms its buy investment rating on UDG Healthcare PLC (LON:UDG) and raised its price target to 720p (from 700p).

Story provided by StockMarketWire.com

Final results

Financial highlights (continuing Group only)
·    Diluted earnings per share1 (EPS) from continuing operations increased by 8% (9% on a constant currency basis).
·    Revenue growth of 3% to €943.1m. Underlying revenue2 up 7%.
·    Operating profit1 growth of 8% (9% on a constant currency basis) to €104.2 million.
·    Operating margin1 increased from 10.5% to 11.1%. Net operating margin3 increased from 12.2% to 12.6%.
·    Profit before tax1 up 10% (11% on a constant currency basis).
·    Proposed 5% increase in final dividend to 8.50c per share, yielding a full year dividend of 11.55c per share.
·    The Group has net cash of €128.3m at 30 September 2016.
·    Return on capital employed (ROCE) for 2016 was 13.7%, up from 13.5% in 2015.
 
Strategic & operating highlights
·    Disposal of the United Drug Supply Chain businesses and MASTA completed on 1 April 2016 resulting in a net profit on disposal of €132.1m.  
·     Completed the acquisition of Pegasus in April 2016, and STEM post year end. Both acquisitions are an excellent strategic fit for Ashfield, with good growth prospects and a higher margin profile.
·     Ashfield's operating profit increased by 7% (underlying growth2 of 9%), driven by positive underlying growth2 in both Ashfield Commercial & Clinical and Ashfield Communications.
·    Sharp's operating profit increased by 16% (underlying growth2 of 12%) driven by continued growth in the US commercial packaging business.
·   Sharp completed the build and fit out of its new packaging facility in Allentown, Pennsylvania increasing US commercial packaging capacity by approximately 30%. 
·     Aquilant's performance negatively impacted by adverse currency movements with underlying2 operating profit €0.2 million down.

13:20 15/12/2016
Broker Forecast - Jefferies International issues a broker note on UDG Healthcare PLC
Jefferies International today reaffirms its buy investment rating on UDG Healthcare PLC (LON:UDG) and raised its price target to 750p (from 745p). Story provided by StockMarketWire.com

1st Quarter Trading Update

RNS


RNS Number : 1585W

UDG Healthcare Public Limited Co.

07 February 2017




UDG HEALTHCARE PLC



FIRST QUARTER TRADING UPDATE



Good start to the year and full year guidance issued



7 February 2017:



UDG Healthcare plc ("the Group"), a leading international provider of healthcare services, issues the following trading update covering the period from 1 October to 31 December 2016. The company will hold its Annual General Meeting in Dublin at 12.00pm today.



Quarter to 31 December 2016



Group



The Group has made a good start to the financial year with operating profits for the quarter to 31 December 2016 well ahead of the same quarter last year. This performance has been driven by continued good underlying growth and the impact of acquisitions. As a result of the fall in the value of Sterling, reported profit growth was moderated by the translation of our Sterling profits into US Dollars.



Ashfield



Trading is well ahead of the same quarter last year, with good underlying growth supplemented by acquisitions. STEM was acquired in October 2016 and has performed in line with expectations.



Within the Ashfield Commercial & Clinical business, operating profit growth was strongest in the US, as the business ramps up activity on contract wins from 2016. The Ashfield communications business continues to perform well with underlying profit ahead of the same quarter last year.



Sharp



Divisional operating profits during the quarter were moderately ahead of a strong comparable quarter last year.



The Sharp US commercial packaging business continues to increase activity levels within its recently expanded facility in Allentown, Pennsylvania. The business also continues to increase its engagement with clients in preparation for the serialisation of prescription products from November 2017. Both factors are expected to have a more material benefit on performance in the second half of the year.



Sharp Europe remains focused on converting its improved business development pipeline into new business activity. This pipeline is mainly in the biotech focused Belgian facility.





Aquilant



Aquilant's underlying operating profits were in line with the same quarter last year.



Board Appointment



The Board is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Myles Lee as a non-executive director of the Company with effect from 1 April 2017. Mr. Lee was Group Chief Executive of CRH plc, a FTSE100 and Fortune 500 company, prior to retiring in December 2013.



Group Outlook & Development



With effect from 1 October 2016, the Group now reports its financial results in US Dollars.



Based on the Group's good trading performance during the first quarter of the financial year, the Group expects constant currency adjusted diluted earnings per share (EPS)1 for the year to 30 September 2017 to be between 13% and 16% ahead of last year's continuing Group EPS of US$ 31.8c (Euro: 28.6c).



The average FY16 exchange rates were US$1 = £0.704 and €0.90. Based on the current prevailing exchange rates, the Group is likely to face a foreign exchange headwind on the translation of Sterling profits in FY17.



The Group remains in a net cash position, leaving the business well positioned to continue its corporate development activities, which should serve to complement its continued underlying profit growth.



1 Before the amortisation of acquired intangible assets, transaction costs and exceptional items



Date for Interim Results



The Group will issue its interim results for the six months to 31 March 2017 on Tuesday 23 May 2017.

15:20 04/04/2017
Broker Forecast - Numis issues a broker note on UDG Healthcare PLC
Numis today downgrades its investment rating on UDG Healthcare PLC (LON:UDG) to hold (from add) and left its price target at 730p. Story provided by StockMarketWire.com
12:30 04/04/2017
Broker Forecast - Stifel issues a broker note on UDG Healthcare PLC
Stifel today reaffirms its hold investment rating on UDG Healthcare PLC (LON:UDG) and raised its price target to 650p (from 620p). Story provided by StockMarketWire.com

13:00 07/02/2018
Broker Forecast - N+1 Singer issues a broker note on UDG Healthcare PLC
N+1 Singer today reaffirms its hold investment rating on UDG Healthcare PLC (LON:UDG) and set its price target at 813p. Story provided by StockMarketWire.com Broker Forecasts data provided by www.sharesmagazine.co.uk
08:30 07/02/2018
Broker Forecast - Liberum Capital issues a broker note on UDG Healthcare PLC
Liberum Capital today upgrades its investment rating on UDG Healthcare PLC (LON:UDG) to buy (from hold) and left its price target at 884p. Story provided by StockMarketWire.com Broker Forecasts data provided by www.sharesmagazine.co.uk

Notice of Interim Results
RNS
RNS Number : 6463M
UDG Healthcare Public Limited Co.
01 May 2018


1 May 2018
UDG Healthcare plc
Notice of Interim Results

UDG Healthcare plc ("the Group"), a leading international healthcare services provider, will issue its interim results for the half year ended 31 March 2018 at 07:00am (BST) on Tuesday 22 May 2018.

Interim report