Immco Diagnostics

In 1971, a company named Immco Diagnostics was founded in Buffalo, New York, with a focus on a specialized and growing field: autoimmune diseases. It established itself as a developer and manufacturer of diagnostic test kits, serving laboratories worldwide. The company also operated a reference laboratory in the U.S., providing specialized testing services for hospitals and other labs. Immco carved out a niche in the high-growth, specialty autoimmune segment, distinct from the high-volume, automated testing market dominated by larger players. This strategy focused on developing tests for conditions like Sjögren's syndrome, celiac disease, and lupus, where there was significant need. The company's business model included both the sale of its diagnostic products and providing direct laboratory services. A key moment in Immco's journey came in July 2013 when it was acquired by Trinity Biotech, a Dublin-based developer of diagnostic products, for $32.75 million. At the time of the acquisition, Immco had approximately 90 employees and annual revenues of $12.5 million. Trinity Biotech saw the acquisition as a strategic move to add a strong autoimmune product line to its existing infectious disease portfolio. The deal was structured to retain Immco's management team, led by then-CEO Bill Maggio, to continue driving the business forward within the new parent company.