Merck eyes life science deals but offers muted 2026 outlook

Company is aiming to achieve net sales between around €20.5bn and €21.7bn in 2025

Merck officially opened its €150m filtration manufacturing facility at Blarney Business Park in Cork last month, part of a €440m investment in life science in Ireland. 

Pharmaceuticals and technology company Merck gave a guidance for 2026 that sent its shares falling during its capital markets day on Thursday, wiping out their earlier gains that had been buoyed by more upbeat mid-term commentary.

Merck's life science and electronics units are expected to improve gradually next year, while the healthcare business is predicted to "temporarily moderate", chief financial officer Helene von Roeder said in a conference call.