Kane Biotech Announces Closing of the Sale of STEM Animal Health to Dechra Veterinary Products

An important step in Kane becoming a market leader in the growing high-value wound care and dermatological markets

WINNIPEG, Manitoba, April 15, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kane Biotech Inc. (TSX- V:KNE; OTCQB:KNBIF) (“Kane”) announces that, it has completed the sale of its interest in STEM Animal Health Inc. to Dechra Veterinary Products, Inc. for US $8,000,000, plus net cash held in STEM (estimated at CND $600,000) and a working capital adjustment (estimated at CND $350,000) (the “Transaction”). Overall, it is anticipated that the sale of STEM will net Kane an estimated CND $11,500,000. The Transaction was completed by way of a share purchase agreement between Kane, STEM, Ecuphar NV and Dechra dated April 12, 2024.

“This transaction not only allows Dechra to continue to deliver our best-in-class Vetradent pet oral care line, but also provides a significant opportunity to expand our offerings in the e-commerce and pet specialty markets in North and South America as well by leveraging both Kane’s expertise and their proven and patented coactiv+ and DispersinB technology platforms in a broad range of products and treatments,” said Mike Eldred, President, North American Operations of Dechra.

In connection with the Transaction, Kane also entered into a product development agreement, and a transitional manufacturing agreement with STEM. Kane is also eligible for a US $750,000 sales-based milestone payment if certain sales targets are met by STEM.

“This transaction, which should ultimately net Kane more than $13 million CND, is an important step in Kane becoming a market leader in the growing high-value wound care and dermatological market,” said Marc Edwards, Kane's President and CEO. “It focuses the company, significantly improves our balance sheet and provides the necessary capital to achieve key milestone such as commercial launches and growth globally, as well as our clinical programs in both wound care and acne.”

Prior to the completion of the Transaction, Kane received an aggregate of US $1,525,000 from Dechra as deposits towards the final purchase price.

In connection with the completion of the Transaction, a portion of the net proceeds will be used to repay its loan from Pivot Financial I Limited Partnership of approximately CND $6.7 million.

In accordance with the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange, the Transaction required the consent of shareholders of Kane holding over 50% of the common shares of Kane due to the fact that the Transaction constituted a sale of more than 50% of Kane’s assets, business or undertaking. In connection with the completion of the Transaction, Kane obtained the written consent of shareholders of Kane holding more than 50% of the common shares of Kane.