Agfa to Purchase Sterling Diagnostic Imaging

The Agfa-Gevaert Group, part of the Bayer Group, has agreed to purchase the capital stock of SDI Holding Corp., the parent company of Sterling Diagnostic Imaging Inc. The deal is expected to close in the late first quarter or second quarter of 1999 and is subject to the approval of antitrust authorities. The terms were not disclosed.

"Medical Imaging is one of our core businesses. The Sterling acquisition means worldwide turnover in excess of $1 billion for our medical business. Agfa will become a key player in the worldwide medical diagnostic imaging business, combining Sterling's presence in the U.S., and Agfa's presence in Europe," said Dr. Klaus Seeger, CEO of the Agfa-Gevaert Group.

The contract includes all Sterling Diagnostic Imaging businesses except for the entities that provide the Helios and Direct Radiography products.

Sterling Diagnostic Imaging Inc., supplies health care systems with diagnostic imaging products and services for conventional imaging, mammography, video and dry imaging, and other specialty applications, as well as an integrated line of digital imaging systems.

Agfa produces analog and digital imaging systems, primarily for the graphics industry, photography, and medical and industrial radiography.