Bio-Techne Corporation (NASDAQ: TECH) ("Bio-Techne"), a global provider of life science tools, reagents and diagnostic products, announced that Bio-Techne shareholders voted to approve and adopt the definitive agreement under which Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany proposes to acquire Bio-Techne (the "Merger Agreement") at a Special Meeting of Shareholders.

"We are grateful to our shareholders for their strong support, which marks an important milestone toward completing the transaction," said Kim Kelderman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Bio-Techne. "Joining Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany will bring together our complementary and leading life sciences organizations while delivering substantial, near-term cash value to Bio-Techne shareholders. The combined company will be uniquely positioned to support customers across the full spectrum of life science workflows from discovery and translational research through development, testing and commercial manufacturing."

The final voting results, as certified by the independent inspector of elections, will be reported in a Form 8-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC").

In addition to shareholder approval, the waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended, in connection with the proposed transaction expired at 11:59 p.m., Eastern Time, on September 18, 2026. Bio-Techne continues to expect the transaction to close by late 2026 or early 2027, subject to satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including receipt of remaining required regulatory approvals.