Merck KGaA (OTCMKTS:MKKGY) is a global science and technology company headquartered in Darmstadt, Germany, with origins dating back to 1668. Over its more than 350-year history, the company has expanded its footprint to serve customers in over 100 countries across the Americas, Europe, Asia-Pacific and other regions. Merck KGaA’s operations are organized into three main business sectors—Healthcare, Life Science and Performance Materials—each addressing critical needs in research, development and end-user applications.
In its Healthcare segment, Merck KGaA develops and markets prescription medicines and therapies in areas such as oncology, immunology, neurology and fertility. The company also offers a portfolio of over-the-counter products for consumer health. Its research pipeline includes small molecules, biopharmaceuticals and novel delivery systems designed to address conditions ranging from multiple sclerosis to hormone-related disorders.
Merck KGaA’s Life Science division supports academic institutions, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies with laboratory supplies, reagents, instruments and digital solutions. Following the integration of Sigma-Aldrich, now known as MilliporeSigma in North America, the unit provides tools for gene editing, single-use bioprocessing, cell therapy manufacturing and laboratory informatics, helping to accelerate scientific discovery and the development of new therapies.
The Performance Materials arm produces specialty chemicals, functional materials and high-precision components for the electronics, automotive, cosmetics and packaging industries. Offerings range from liquid crystals and OLED materials for display technologies to pigments, advanced polymers and filtration media. Since May 2021, Merck KGaA has been led by CEO Belén Garijo, under whose leadership the company continues to pursue innovation, sustainability and strategic partnerships to strengthen its global position.
