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Stock Analysis & ValuationEurofins-Cerep S.A. (ALECR.PA)

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Previous Close
16,100.00
Sector Valuation Confidence Level
High
Valuation methodValue, Upside, %
Artificial intelligence (AI)27995.8574
Intrinsic value (DCF)11405.60-29
Graham-Dodd Method20872.1830
Graham Formula407.03-97

Strategic Investment Analysis

Company Overview

Eurofins-Cerep SA (ALECR.PA) is a leading provider of drug discovery services to pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies globally. Headquartered in Vienne, France, the company specializes in high-throughput screening, in vitro safety profiling, lead optimization, ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion) profiling, and in vivo pharmacokinetics (PK) studies. Formerly known as Cerep SA, the company rebranded in 2014 after becoming part of the Eurofins Scientific network, enhancing its capabilities in preclinical research. Operating in the Medical Diagnostics & Research sector, Eurofins-Cerep plays a critical role in accelerating drug development by offering assay design, compound management, and comprehensive in vitro and in vivo testing services. With a strong presence in Europe and beyond, the company serves as a key partner for biopharma firms seeking efficient, scalable solutions for early-stage drug discovery. Its integration within Eurofins Scientific provides access to a broader range of analytical testing services, reinforcing its competitive edge in the contract research organization (CRO) market.

Investment Summary

Eurofins-Cerep SA presents a niche investment opportunity within the growing CRO sector, benefiting from increasing pharmaceutical R&D outsourcing. The company's strong profitability (net income of €7.15M in the latest period) and minimal debt (€328K) suggest a stable financial position. However, its small market cap (~€103.9M) and lack of dividend payouts may limit appeal to income-focused investors. The low beta (0.444) indicates lower volatility relative to the market, which could attract conservative investors. Key risks include dependence on the broader biopharma R&D spending cycle and potential margin pressures from larger CRO competitors. The company's integration within Eurofins Scientific provides synergies but may also limit standalone growth opportunities.

Competitive Analysis

Eurofins-Cerep operates in the highly competitive preclinical CRO market, where differentiation comes from specialized service offerings and scientific expertise. Its competitive advantage lies in its focus on high-throughput screening and ADME profiling—critical early-stage services for drug discovery. Being part of Eurofins Scientific (ERF.PA) provides access to a global network of laboratories and cross-selling opportunities, though it remains a smaller player compared to full-service CRO giants. The company's asset-light model (evidenced by low capex) allows flexibility in scaling operations. However, its regional focus in Europe may limit growth compared to U.S.-centric competitors. The lack of clinical trial services (a key revenue driver for larger CROs) narrows its addressable market but allows deeper specialization in preclinical work. Pricing pressure from low-cost Asian CROs and the dominance of integrated players like LabCorp and IQVIA in the broader market pose challenges. Eurofins-Cerep's differentiation strategy relies on high-quality data, rapid turnaround times, and customized solutions for niche therapeutic areas.

Major Competitors

  • ICON plc (ICLR): ICON is a global leader in clinical research services with a market cap over $20B, offering end-to-end solutions from preclinical to post-marketing. Its scale and therapeutic expertise dwarf Eurofins-Cerep's capabilities, though it lacks the same depth in high-throughput screening. Strength: Full-service CRO with strong clinical trial management. Weakness: Less focus on early-stage discovery compared to Eurofins-Cerep.
  • Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings (LH): LabCorp's Covance division is a dominant force in preclinical and clinical research. Its vast infrastructure and central lab services compete indirectly with Eurofins-Cerep's specialized offerings. Strength: Unmatched scale in central laboratory testing. Weakness: Less agility in custom assay development compared to smaller players.
  • Charles River Laboratories (CRL): A direct competitor in preclinical services, CRL offers similar in vitro and in vivo capabilities but with greater scale (~$12B market cap). Strength: Comprehensive early-stage portfolio including safety assessment. Weakness: Higher cost structure than Eurofins-Cerep's European operations.
  • Eurofins Scientific SE (ERF.PA): Eurofins-Cerep's parent company provides overlapping services in bioanalytics and food testing. Strength: Shared resources and cross-selling opportunities. Weakness: Potential cannibalization of services within the group.
  • Waters Corporation (WAT): Specializes in analytical instruments used in drug discovery, competing indirectly with Eurofins-Cerep's screening services. Strength: Technological leadership in mass spectrometry. Weakness: No direct service offerings unlike Eurofins-Cerep.
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