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Alcon officials: CIBA integration on schedule
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BOSTON — At a company-sponsored event here at Academy 2011 Boston, officials from Alcon detailed the new organization formed as a result of its merger with Novartis.
Jim Murphy, vice president/general manager of Alcon's U.S. Vision Care Division, told members of the press, "You are seeing the development of the new Alcon. We've been working diligently for Alcon to be integrated into Novartis and for CIBA to be integrated into Alcon."
Alcon consists of the eye care business unit, ophthalmic surgical, ocular pharmaceutical products and multipurpose solutions, he said. Novartis includes ophthalmic pharmaceutical prescription and over-the-counter drugs, excluding Lucentis (ranibizumab).
CIBA covers contact lenses and lens care.
"The objective of the integration was not about a merger, it's about growth," Mr. Murphy said. "Our vision is to be the most trusted leader in eye care."
Rick Weisbarth, OD, FAAO, vice president of professional affairs, told attendees that 2,000 people are dedicated to the company's research and development worldwide, out of a total of 22,000 Alcon employees. Over the next 5 years, $4 billion will be invested in research and development, he said.
"Alcon and CIBA have had a strong heritage of supporting optometry," Dr. Weisbarth said. "We'll continue to ensure ODs receive the best education to provide the best patient care."
The company officials said that Nov. 1 is the start of the two commercial organizations coming together as one.