Associated Logistics Solutions Acquires McKesson Canada's Partnership
Interest in McKesson Logistics Solutions

OAKVILLE, ON, Oct. 13 /CNW Telbec/ - Associated Logistics Solutions (ALS) announced today that it has acquired McKesson Canada's partnership interest in McKesson Logistics Solutions (MLS). MLS was created in April 2004 , as a result of a joint venture between ALS and McKesson Canada , with each partner holding a 50% stake in the venture. Under the confidential terms of the agreement, ALS will now own a 100% interest in MLS.

"This is a significant milestone and strategic decision for both MLS and McKesson Canada , as we both pursue our distinct market directions," commented Cameron Joyce , President, McKesson Logistics Solutions. "These are exciting times for MLS, as we will concentrate our efforts on expanding our footprint and further developing innovative solutions for the healthcare industry. We have long-term relationships with our clients, and we remain committed to our values, quality, excellence and expanding our services," added Cameron Joyce .

"The MLS joint venture has been very successful and this decision was mutual. Of course, since our partnership was fruitful, we will continue to partner with MLS on specific opportunities," stated Domenic Pilla , President, McKesson Canada . "The support we provided to MLS resulted from our trust in its team and we are equally confident that MLS will continue to serve its clients with a high level of dedication. On our side, we will maintain a sharp focus on our mission to combine our resources and expertise in order to help our clients fundamentally reduce the costs, expand access and improve the quality of healthcare in Canada ."

MLS is a leading third party logistics provider focused exclusively on providing integrated services to a broad range of healthcare manufacturers. MLS' focus on delivering customized logistics solutions, its quality management and its continuous improvement philosophy have contributed to its success.

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About Associated Logistics Solutions (ALS)

Associated Logistic Solutions has been an operator and investor in third party logistics since 1994. ALS has successfully developed the systems, processes and partnerships that have positioned them in the forefront of supply chain logistics. In 2004, ALS acquired a 50% ownership position in MLS with McKesson Canada . With today's announcement, ALS acquires the balance of the partnership interest in MLS.

About McKesson Logistics Solutions (MLS)

McKesson Logistics Solutions is Canada's leading third party logistics (3PL) provider offering integrated supply chain services from order management and transportation to customer invoicing and A/R management focused exclusively on the healthcare manufacturing industry. Additional services include specialized 3PL services such as cold chain logistics, co-packing and literature management. Clients include manufacturers of pharmaceutical products, medical devices, medical surgical products and equipment, OTC, natural health and consumer health products.

About McKesson Canada

Founded more than 100 years ago, McKesson Canada is the leading provider of logistics as well as information products and services within the Canadian health care marketplace. McKesson Canada carries more than 35,000 products, in 17 distribution centres, and provides cold chain and ambient logistics and distribution services to more than 800 manufacturers - delivering their products to 6,300 retail pharmacies, 1,350 hospitals, long-term care centres, clinics and institutions throughout Canada . Beyond pharmaceutical distribution, McKesson Canada has provided automation services for 2,500 retail pharmacies and is also active in hospital automation solutions, dispensing more than 100 million doses each year. The company also provides a full range of services to Canadian manufacturers and healthcare providers - such as integrated solutions and patient support programs - contributing to the quality and safety of care for Canadian patients.

For further information: McKesson Logistics Solutions: Tanis Gardner, Executive Vice President, [phone], extension 2233, [email protected]; www.logistics.ca; McKesson Canada: Line Chapdelaine, Director, Corporate Communications, [phone], [email protected]; www.mckesson.ca