UPS' Marken, a critical part of UPS Healthcare, has reached an agreement to purchase the medical courier business of Cedra Express, a New Zealand-based transportation and logistics provider serving the life science and pharmaceutical segment.

UPS said this acquisition will enhance Marken's presence and capabilities as a healthcare logistics provider in the region.

Marken is a global provider of supply chain solutions to the life sciences industry and a leader in clinical trials material storage and distribution. UPS acquired Marken in 2016. 

"With this new direct presence in New Zealand, Marken will be able to expand its service offerings to the local clinical trial client base, including our patient-centric solutions such as Home Healthcare and Direct to/from Patient services," said Ariette van Strien, president of Marken.

UPS noted that following the deal, the medical courier business of Cedra Express will now become Marken New Zealand, with operations in Christchurch and Auckland.

Marken has had a strategic partnership with Cedra Express since it was founded in 2001 by Graham Tappin, who will support this exciting transition of the medical courier business from Cedra Express to Marken New Zealand.

"We are excited to reach an agreement to acquire this New Zealand-based business, which will help position Marken as the preferred partner for innovative clinical trial and cell and gene supply chain logistics solutions throughout the biopharma and healthcare landscape," said Wes Wheeler, president, UPS Healthcare.

"We welcome the expertise and capabilities this brings to UPS Healthcare and Marken, helping to serve customers' complex, global needs.," Wheeler added.