"Globes" has learned that global pharmaceutical giant Pfizer has acquired Israeli start-up Influence for $65 million. It was further learned that the company had previously received an offer for purchase for $180 million, but rejected it.
Herzliya Pituah-based Influence develops and markets micro-surgical implants enabling people with difficulties to control the passing of urine. The problem is widespread among the older population. The company developed a device, which works on the basis of valves implanted in the body, that prevent urine leaking. The company already received US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval for the product it developed for women in this area.
Influence was founded by Motti Beyar and Oren Globerman (joint general managers), and Lewis Pell (chairman of the board of directors). The company also has branches in the US and Britain, and has a staff of forty.
Published by Israel's Business Arena on 17 February, 2000