3M announced today it has acquired J.R. Phoenix Ltd., a manufacturer of hand hygiene and skin care products for health care and professional use including soaps, hand cleansers, moisturizing and protecting creams, antimicrobial soaps and sanitizing gels, shampoo and body wash. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Proper hand washing remains the primary defense in preventing the spread of infection, especially for health care professionals. J.R. Phoenix products are compatible with formulations containing the well-known antiseptic agent chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG), and are formulated for frequent hand washers. Its hand hygiene products are sold under the Laura Line brand in Canada.

“The Laura Line brand products complement and build on our 3M brand hand sanitizers and skin creams product line,” said Debra Rectenwald, president and general manager, 3M Infection Prevention Division. “Adding the Laura Line brand to our offering allows us to deliver a complete line of hand hygiene skin care products to the healthcare market in Canada,” added Brian Young, president and general manager, 3M Canada.

“As part of 3M, the Laura Line brand has a tremendous opportunity to grow by drawing on the strength of 3M’s resources and technical capabilities,” said James Gorloff, president, J.R. Phoenix Ltd.

About 3M

A recognized leader in research and development, 3M produces thousands of innovative products for dozens of diverse markets. 3M’s core strength is applying its more than 40 distinct technology platforms – often in combination – to a wide array of customer needs. With $23 billion in sales, 3M employs 75,000 people worldwide and has operations in more than 65 countries. For more information, visit www.3m.com.

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