Panthera Biopartners, based in Preston, has acquired Óbudai Egészségügyi Centrum Kft (OEC), Hungary’s leading independent clinical research site network. The purchase marks the major first step in Panthera’s European expansion strategy.
Stuart Young, CEO of Panthera, said: "This acquisition represents a major milestone for Panthera as we expand into mainland Europe. OEC is a well-established organisation in Hungary with an outstanding reputation for quality, efficiency, and patient access. By bringing together leading businesses in the UK and Hungary, we are creating a powerful platform to deliver faster, more reliable clinical trials at scale."
The deal follows an investment in Panthera from private equity firm LDC, part of Lloyds Banking Group, and a reinvestment from BGF in August 2025. Founded in 1997, OEC is regarded as Hungary’s top independent clinical research organisation and the only large-scale, non-academic site network in the country. It has built a reputation over nearly 30 years, delivering Phase II–IV studies across a wide range of therapeutic areas.
The acquisition adds four Hungarian clinical research sites to Panthera’s growing network, including its flagship Budapest facility and locations in Zalaegerszeg, Dunaújváros, and Kaposvár. These sites, supported by more than 70 specialist investigators, offer access to diverse patient populations and regional recruitment capabilities that will help Panthera better support its global pharmaceutical and CRO partners.
Gábor Kiss, managing director of OEC, said: "OEC has built a market-leading position in Hungary by focusing on quality, innovation, and patient-centred research. Joining Panthera enables us to scale our capabilities, expand our reach, and continue delivering high-quality clinical trials for sponsors and CRO partners across Europe."
Panthera Biopartners operates clinical research sites across the UK, including sites in Preston and Rochdale.
