Degussa, DENTSPLY combine forces

DENTSPLY International Inc. and Degussa Dental, a unit of Degussa AG since 1970, have announced the signing of a definitive agreement providing for the combination of the two companies through a cash acquisition by DENTSPLY valued at roughly $500 million.

The transaction, following regulatory approval in the United States, Germany, and certain other countries is expected to close in July.

Degussa Dental is expected to add approximately $430 million to DENTSPLY�s annual sales. The combined company is expected to generate total revenues of $1.5 billion in 2001.