Merck & Co., Inc., known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, is one of the largest and most renowned pharmaceutical companies in the world. Established in 1891, the company has a long history of scientific innovation and has made significant contributions to public health through groundbreaking medicines, vaccines, and biological therapies. Headquartered in Kenilworth, New Jersey, Merck operates in over 140 countries, focusing on human and animal health products, spanning areas such as oncology, vaccines, diabetes, and infectious diseases.
Merck is driven by its mission to discover, develop, and provide innovative products that save and improve lives. Over the years, the company has been recognized for its leadership in scientific research and its extensive pipeline of drugs aimed at some of the most challenging health conditions. Some of Merck's most well-known products include Keytruda (oncology), Gardasil (HPV vaccine), and Januvia (diabetes). Merck continues to play a vital role in addressing global health challenges, including efforts to combat pandemics and neglected tropical diseases.
CEO and Founder of Merck & Co.
Merck & Co. traces its roots back to Friedrich Jacob Merck, who founded a small pharmacy in Darmstadt, Germany, in 1668. The American subsidiary, Merck & Co., was established in 1891 as a division of the German parent company but became an independent U.S. entity after World War I. The company’s leadership has changed hands multiple times over the years, with Robert M. Davis serving as the current CEO since July 2021. Davis has led the company through critical phases of growth, focusing on advancing Merck’s leadership in oncology, vaccines, and animal health while expanding its global impact through partnerships and collaborations.
List of Top Subsidiaries and Companies Under Merck & Co. (USA)
Merck & Co. has made several strategic acquisitions over the years, strengthening its position in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. Below is a list of top companies under Merck & Co., along with their approximate valuations:
| Company Name | Year Acquired/Founded | Valuation | Industry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schering-Plough | 2009 (Acquired) | $41 Billion | Pharmaceuticals |
| Cubist Pharmaceuticals | 2014 (Acquired) | $9.5 Billion | Antibiotics/Pharmaceuticals |
| Organon & Co. | 2021 (Spinoff) | $8.5 Billion | Women's Health, Biosimilars |
| Acceleron Pharma | 2021 (Acquired) | $11.5 Billion | Biopharmaceuticals |
| Ikena Oncology | 2020 (Partnership) | N/A | Cancer Treatment Research |
| Peloton Therapeutics | 2019 (Acquired) | $1.05 Billion | Oncology, Cancer Research |
| Antelliq | 2019 (Acquired) | $2.4 Billion | Animal Health, Diagnostics |
FAQs About Merck & Co. (USA)
Q1: When was Merck & Co. founded?
A: Merck & Co. was founded in 1891 as a U.S. subsidiary of the German company Merck KGaA. It became independent after World War I.
Q2: Who is the current CEO of Merck & Co.?
A: The current CEO of Merck & Co. is Robert M. Davis, who assumed the position in July 2021.
Q3: What are Merck’s most famous products?
A: Some of Merck's most renowned products include Keytruda (oncology), Gardasil (HPV vaccine), and Januvia (diabetes treatment).
Q4: What companies has Merck acquired?
A: Merck has acquired several companies, including Schering-Plough, Cubist Pharmaceuticals, and Acceleron Pharma, to enhance its portfolio in pharmaceuticals, oncology, and biopharmaceuticals.
Q5: What does Merck's spinoff company, Organon & Co., focus on?
A: Organon & Co. focuses on women’s health, biosimilars, and established brands, and was spun off from Merck & Co. in 2021.
