Rayner, a UK cataract surgery products firm, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Swiss-based This AG, the inventor, developer and manufacturer of Sophi phaco emulsification machines.
Throughout its 114-year history, Rayner has been at the forefront of innovation in ophthalmology and remains the only manufacturer of intraocular lenses in the UK. This acquisition marks a new chapter for the company as it branches out to include phaco technology as part of its product portfolio.
Sophi (Swiss Ophthalmology Innovation) is an innovative phaco technology providing mobility, simplicity, and safety within the operating theatre. With advanced features including triple pump fluidics, active IOP control, clean venturi and day cassette, cable free power supply and wireless communication, Sophi presents an advanced surgical system.
Tim Clover, Rayner CEO, said: “The phaco machine plays a central role in cataract surgery. At Rayner we aspire to launch the highest quality products, inspired by surgeons and driven by science. Sophi shares this vision, and their machines are truly differentiated with breakthrough technology combined with stunning design which makes them such a good fit for Rayner. I’m excited about their product range today, as well as what we will be planning together for tomorrow.”
Thomas Koeppel, Founder and CEO of Sophi, said: “Sophi was created by viewing things from a completely new perspective; to redefine the requirements of a perfect phaco system by focusing on the point of view of the surgeon and their team. We saw the same philosophy in Rayner and are excited to combine in order to offer Sophi through an expanded commercial team and to accelerate our innovation projects.”
The acquisition will enhance Rayner’s breadth of products for cataract surgery, enabling provision of a full offering also encompassing IOLs, OVDs, eye drops, pharmaceuticals, digital tools, and single-use recyclable instruments.
