Banook, a global data collection services provider for clinical trials, is proud to announce the acquisition of Fluidda, a US-based pioneer in Functional Respiratory Imaging (FRI) dedicated to respiratory clinical research, with a unique expertise in Computational Fluid Dynamics.
Since November 2023, Banook has been supported by the Private Equity fund Motion Equity Partners to drive its external growth strategy and accelerate its international development with the aim to better serve its clients, Pharma companies and CROs. Two years after Motion’s entry as majority shareholder, the Group now completes its fourth acquisition and reaches a new dimension.
As a reminder, Banook acquired Nabios in 2021, a German cardiac safety specialist to consolidate its expertise in Cardiac Safety in Europe. With the support of Motion Equity Partners it then acquired Keosys in 2024, a central imaging CRO, and B.Research, an eCOA platform based in Australia, to strengthen the Group’s offering and global footprint.
The very complementary acquisition of Fluidda marks a major step in Banook’s growth journey as it enables the Group to reach a new scale, with a reinforced presence in the US while adding a new scientific expertise in Respiratory, which complements the Group’s capabilities in Cardiac Safety, Imaging and eCOA.
Fluidda is the global leader in Functional Respiratory Imaging, with a unique expertise in AI and Computational Fluid Dynamics. Its advanced technology uses CT scan images to create 3D models allowing to quantify the lung structure and simulate the precise deposition of inhaled drugs under development. For clinical trials, it allows to assess drugs efficacy with very precise endpoints, beyond what can be achieved with traditional techniques.
Fluidda employs 30 employees across the US, Belgium and Portugal and is led by Jan De Backer, a recognized industry-expert who will lead Banook’s respiratory practice and Banook’s commercial expansion in the US.
By acquiring Fluidda, Banook adds robust AI expertise and advanced data analytics capabilities, broadens its footprint into the respiratory field, and reinforces its collaboration with the FDA, while establishing a strong presence in the US market.
With close to 200 employees worldwide, Banook will leverage its strong European roots and shared ambitions in North America to accelerate growth and strengthen its positioning as a global one-stop-shop player.
Together, Banook and Fluidda will combine their complementary expertise to better serve Sponsors and CROs worldwide, through innovative and integrated solutions for clinical trials.
“This acquisition aligns perfectly with our vision to expand Banook’s scientific and technological capabilities across major therapeutic domains” said Alexandre Durand-Salmon, Chief Executive Officer of Banook. “Fluidda’s innovative imaging technology and deep respiratory expertise will strengthen our ability to deliver high-quality, patient-centered solutions for complex global trials.”
“Since our investment, our goal has been to support Banook in its ambition to become a global leader in technological services for clinical trials. The acquisition of Fluidda marks a new milestone for the Group: Banook is now entering a new phase of expansion and is ideally positioned to accelerate its international development and compete with world leaders” said Cédric Rays, Partner at Motion Equity Partners.
