Pharmaceutical company may be under new ownership
Merck KGaA, a German pharmaceutical company, may buy Bio-Techne Corp., a lab-material company based at 614 McKinley Pl. NE. The deal is worth $11.3 billion, which would make it one of the largest business acquisitions in Minnesota history.
Over the past five years, Bio-Techne’s stock has fallen by roughly 50%. If the acquisition is approved by regulators, it will make Bio-Techne among the state’s five largest-ever acquisitions.
Architect earns accolade
David O’Brien Wagner, AIA, of SALA Architects, 326 E. Hennepin Ave, has been named the 2026 recipient of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) Minnesota’s Residential Architect of Distinction award.
According to a press release, the award recognizes “more than two decades of nationally acclaimed residential design rooted in craftsmanship, landscape, and environmental stewardship.
“The award is AIA Minnesota’s highest recognition for sustained excellence in residential architecture,” the release continues.
“My goal is to connect people with the land,” Wagner said. “I believe that protecting the global environment begins by helping people care for the places where they live. When done well, architecture is the lens that achieves this goal.”
Antiques store turns 50
Architectural Antiques, 1330 Quincy St. NE, is celebrating 50 years. The antique store, which specializes in home décor, furnishings and fixtures, was founded in 1976. The business came under new ownership last year, when the business’ former owner retired and handed the operations off to his son.
Stained glass company moves
Gaytee-Palmer Stained Glass Inc. has moved to Roseville. The custom designer-fabricator-installer of stained glass windows for commercial, church and residential customers was formerly housed in the “Alamo” building at 1519 Central Ave. NE.