Belgian investment holding Groupe Bruxelles Lambert (GBL) has signed definitive agreements to acquire a 45 percent co-controlling stake in Rayner, a leading manufacturer of intraocular lenses and other ophthalmic products.
GBL will invest 500 million euros in equity alongside existing shareholders CVC and Rayner’s management team, with the transaction expected to close in the second quarter of 2026.
Once completed, GBL will share co-control rights with CVC as part of its strategy to expand direct private investments and focus on assets where it holds significant influence.
Headquartered in the United Kingdom, Rayner develops a full range of solutions – including lenses, surgical instruments, equipment, and eye drops – to help restore vision for patients undergoing cataract or refractive surgery.
The company operates in more than 80 countries across six continents, supported by direct sales teams in 16 markets. The deal marks GBL’s third investment in healthcare, a sector it considers a priority due to favorable demographic trends, long-term growth prospects, and opportunities for value-creating mergers and acquisitions.
GBL executives said the investment underscores the group’s ambition to increase exposure to high-growth private companies and proven platform businesses.
Rayner CEO Tim Clover describes the transaction as a significant milestone that strengthens the company’s shareholder base following recent investments in research and development, new products, FDA approvals, and manufacturing capabilities.
Both CVC and GBL signaled they intend to work closely with Rayner’s leadership to support its next phase of expansion.
