Premier Laser Bids for Ophthalmic Imaging

Premier Laser Systems Inc., which owns a 51% stake in Ophthalmic Imaging Systems, said Thursday it is seeking to acquire the remaining 49% of the company and merge it with a unit of Irvine-based Premier.

Under the offer, each Ophthalmic Imaging shareholder would receive Premier Laser’s Class A shares valued at 85 cents each. The value is based on the average closing price of Premier’s Class A shares during the five trading days immediately before the effective date of the proposed merger.

The stock closed Thursday at $2.25, up 13 cents a share.

Premier Laser plans to merge its EyeSys Vision Group operations with Ophthalmic Imaging.

Premier manufactures and markets medical lasers, fiber optic delivery systems and products for dental, ophthalmic and surgical uses. Sacramento-based Ophthalmic makes diagnostic imaging systems.