Bergen Brunswig, United Drugs Agree to 5-Year Partnership

Bergen Brunswig Corp. said Monday that it has agreed to become the only supplier for a closely held drug purchasing company in a partnership worth about $600 million a year, including business Bergen will retain.

Bergen, which distributes drugs, medical supplies and consumer products, will be the sole supplier for Phoenix-based United Drugs, which has about 900 independent retail pharmacy customers. About 20% of the value of the partnership will represent new business for Bergen, one of several suppliers for United Drugs. The agreement, scheduled to take effect Feb. 1, will last for five years.

Bergen shares rose $3.81 to $45.