BMS offloads U.S. distribution to Exel

Third-party logistics provider Exel will provide U.S. distribution for Bristol-Myers Squibb. To get the deal rolling, the drug giant has sold distribution centers in Mount Vernon, IN, to the service provider, a unit of DHL.

BMS is turning over logistics and finished-goods distribution responsibilities for cold and non-cold chain products, clinical trials, samples and exports. The deal also involves a second distribution facility that Exel will open and manage in Pennsylvania.

BMS isn't the only big pharma to offload logistics. Pfizer turned over distribution operations and a facility to Exel late last year in an outsourcing arrangement.

- see the Exel announcement