News: Press Releases
Fougera Employees Celebrate 160th Anniversary
Long-standing Experience with Economic Highs and Lows
Melville, New York, Date – Fougera, a modern leader in the generic pharmaceuticals industry, was founded in the early years of US history; the country was only 73 years old. Fougera has endured the US Civil War, two world wars and numerous economic downturns, including the Great Depression of 1929. In celebration of its resilient history and current success, more than 600 employees of Fougera and its parent company, Nycomed US Inc., as well as leaders from the generic pharmaceutical industry, came together on February 11 to mark the company’s 160th anniversary. Guests were treated to a look back in time to 1849 when Edmond Fougera, a French immigrant, opened his first pharmacy in Brooklyn, New York.
“To see a company still thriving 160 years after it was founded is quite an achievement. It’s proof of Fougera’s ability to evolve, adapt and build a sustainable business,” Håkan Björklund, CEO of Nycomed told the crowd. “Fougera remains a key business unit for Nycomed. Despite the financial turmoil happening throughout the world today, Fougera’s future is bright.”
“The pharmaceutical industry was in its infancy when Fougera was founded, and all our employees are extremely proud that Fougera has stayed relevant,” stated David Klaum, Senior Vice President, and General Manager of Fougera. “While it’s impossible to identify how many people have contributed to this remarkable history, it is clear that their passion and commitment has sustained us in good times and bad. We now have the awesome privilege to continue the journey and leave this company even stronger for the generations to come”
Shauna Tholen, VP and CIO, has been with the company for only two months, and described the event as rewarding. “The excitement was contagious and every employee received the clear message that the entire organization shares the success of our 160th anniversary. It’s a thrill to work in an environment where the passion and the pride are so evident,” she said.
Another new employee, Mike Renninger, Director of Distribution, was impressed with the celebration and the message behind it. “One hundred sixty years of success says a lot about the way a company has been operating and having every employee take part in this top-notch event tells me that each person is valued and considered an important part of the Fougera legacy,” he said.
Denise Martin, Component Coordinator, has been with the company for 31 years. “Our history is something to be proud of. I’ve seen many changes over the years, but the important thing is that coming to work still feels like being with family,” she said.
Leaders from the pharmaceutical industry offered congratulations to the company on this milestone. The president of the Generic Pharmaceutical Association, Kathleen Jaeger, addressed the crowd and conveyed the industry’s excitement and support for Fougera. The occasion was also recognized by citations from politicians including US Congressmen Timothy Bishop and Peter King, as well as Nassau County Executive Thomas Suozzi.
About Fougera
Founded in 1849, Fougera is a division of Nycomed US Inc. and is the leading manufacturer and distributor of a wide range of topical products. For more information on Fougera’s complete line of products, please call Fougera Customer Service at (800) 645-9833 or visit the company online at www.fougera.com.
About Nycomed US Inc.
Nycomed US Inc. is a subsidiary of Nycomed. In addition to Fougera, Nycomed US Inc. operates two additional divisions of specialty pharmaceuticals. The PharmaDerm® division is dedicated to bringing innovative products to dermatologists so they can best care for their patients. Nycomed US Inc. also markets and sells Savage Laboratories products, which focus on emergency care. More information is available at www.nycomedus.com.