Acquisition Helps Boost Biopool’s Sales, Income

Biopool International in Ventura reported that sales for the first quarter ended March 31 grew 130% to $4.1 million from $1.78 million for the first three months of 1996. Income before taxes amounted to $397,000 in the first quarter of 1997, compared with $289,000 in the 1996 period, a 37% increase.

Net income increased slightly to $310,000, or 3 cents per share, compared with $300,000 for the same period last year.

“Although a significant portion of the substantial increase in year-to-date sales can be attributed to our recently acquired BCA Division, we are pleased to report that our core hemostasis business grew approximately 15% over the same period last year,” said Michael D. Bick, chairman and chief executive.

Company officials said they will begin filling new orders this quarter related to a distribution agreement with Allegiance Healthcare.

Biopool develops and manufactures test kits to diagnose various blood disorders, monitor the presence of drugs, screen for antibodies and group and type whole blood. The company’s products are sold to hospitals, laboratories and blood bank facilities.