BRIEF—Investor opposes Danaher’s acquisition of Abcam

Jonathan Milner, the founder and one of the largest investors in Abcam with a holding of more than 6%, has announced his decision to vote against the proposed acquisition of the company by Danaher.

He will formally request the Abcam directors to convene a general meeting with the purpose of replacing the company’s board, including the current chief executive, chief financial officer and chairman.

Dr Milner claims that his decision to oppose the acquisition is informed by extensive feedback received from other shareholders and analysts, who share his belief that the $24 per share offer substantially undervalues Abcam when considering its potential as an independent entity with an effective board and executive leadership.

From 1999 to 2014, Dr Milner was chief executive of Abcam, and he served as deputy chairman from 2015 to 2020.