Sandoz pharmaceuticals

Sandoz is a global leader in generic and biosimilar pharmaceuticals, with a legacy dating back to its founding in Basel, Switzerland, in 1886. Originally established as Kern & Sandoz, the company grew into a major pharmaceutical powerhouse, famously merging with Ciba-Geigy in 1996 to form Novartis. For decades, it operated as the generic medicine division of the Novartis Group, developing a diverse portfolio that includes antibiotics, cardiovascular treatments, and complex biosimilars.

Following a strategic spin-off in October 2023, Sandoz became a fully independent, publicly traded entity listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange. This move was designed to allow the brand to focus exclusively on its mission of increasing patient access to affordable medicine. Manufacturing for Sandoz products is a global operation, with major production facilities located throughout Europe (particularly in Austria, Slovenia, and Germany), Asia, and North America to serve over 100 markets worldwide.

The brand is currently owned by Sandoz Group AG, which remains headquartered in Basel, Switzerland. The company continues to lead in the development of biosimilars—biologic medicines that are highly similar to already approved reference products—which are essential for treating complex conditions like cancer and autoimmune diseases. By maintaining its Swiss heritage while operating an expansive international supply chain, Sandoz remains a vital pillar of the global healthcare system.