MISSISSAUGA - Maxxam Analytics International Corporation, an OMERS Private Equity portfolio company, announced that it has acquired Burnaby, BC-based CANTEST Ltd., including its laboratory locations in Victoria and Winnipeg. CANTEST is British Columbia's largest independent analytical laboratory business, specializing in environmental, food and pharmaceutical laboratory services. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Maxxam CEO Jon Hantho said: "The acquisition of CANTEST represents an exciting opportunity to strengthen Maxxam's presence in Western Canada and more specifically in the British Columbia marketplace, where we will now have over 350 employees. CANTEST represents an ideal growth platform and we will look to expand the current scope of laboratory services with new investments over the next year. Additionally, we plan to expand Maxxam's service offering by leveraging CANTEST's specialized expertise to other markets across Canada and internationally."

"This acquisition continues CANTEST's growth trajectory, while carrying on the work and legacy of its founder, Dr Donald B. Rix, C.M., O.B.C., a leader in the British Columbia biotechnology and business communities," Hantho added. "Like Maxxam, CANTEST has a solid commitment to science, innovation, quality and exceptional customer service."

Said Dr. Rix: "This transaction represents a great opportunity for CANTEST and our employee team. With the strength of Maxxam's national footprint and sound Canadian ownership, CANTEST is now ideally positioned to be part of a great growth engine that creates new jobs and career opportunities."

Maxxam will be working with a senior team from CANTEST over the next two months to identify the best options for integrating the organizations and ensuring a seamless transition for all customers.