DJO Merger Update | Autumn 2007
On 16th of July it was announced that DJO had agreed to merge with ReAble Therapeutics Inc. ReAble develops, manufactures and distributes a comprehensive range of orthopaedic devices including surgical implants, sports medical equipment and products for orthopaedic rehabilitation pain management and physical therapy and is best known for its leading brands Cefar, Chattanooga, Compex, Empi and Encore. In the international markets ReAble works through its distributors with a very strong German presence through its wholly owned subsidiary Ormed. ReAble itself is an affiliate company of U.S. based Blackstone Group, which acquired ReAble in 2006.
But what does it all actually mean for DJO and our customers? Stephen Murphy, Vice-President, DJO International explains: “In the short-term very little. The merger is not expected to be finalised until nearer the end of 2007. In the meantime DJO will continue the manufacturing and supply of some of the most technically advanced and well produced bracing products in the world from its headquarters in California. It will also maintain its R&D programme which has developed some of the most innovative musculoskeletal products used in orthopaedic rehabilitation today.
“In the long-term, however it will be very exciting indeed. The merger will bring together two leaders in the fields of orthopaedics and rehabilitation. ReAble’s six brand divisions largely offer a range of products that whilst not directly competing with DJO will certainly enhance the entire orthopaedic support range DJO will be able to offer, from traction-beds to surgical joint implants to muscular electronic stimulation and of course a huge range of bracing products.
“DJO’s philosophy and ethos is to “Never Stop Getting Better”. In a year’s time our group product range will doubtless show that to full advantage with a one-stop solution for all your orthopaedic and rehabilitation needs.”
