UPS is to further expand into healthcare logistics with the acquisition of Marken, a provider of supply chain services to the life sciences industry.

Under the deal, Marken will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of UPS and will gain access to UPS’s global network. UPS announced expanded logistics capabilities for clinical trials in July, and its network includes temperature-sensitive storage and transportation, 24-hour monitoring and security.

UPS chief marketing and business services officer, Teresa Finley says: “UPS is focused on the logistics complexity of clinical trials, and the acquisition fits well into our long-term growth plans in the biopharma segment.”

“Marken’s significant industry expertise and flexible network, combined with UPS’s vast integrated global air and ground networks, will provide the life sciences industry with an attractive portfolio of global logistics options.”

Marken chief executive officer, Wes Wheeler says: “UPS’s capabilities, particularly in mature markets, will provide many opportunities for us to enhance our service offerings in clinical trials logistics. With UPS, we will improve our efficiency, while continuing to provide our clients with the high-touch, personalised services that they have come to expect from us.”

UPS has more than 100 healthcare dedicated facilities with 60 Good Manufacturing Practices compliant locations. Shippers have access to the UPS Temperature True, UPS Proactive Response, UPS WorldShip, UPS Quantum View and other portfolios.