Charles River Laboratories announced on January 7, 2016 the signing of a definitive agreement to acquire WIL Research. This acquisition will "enhance Charles River’s global footprint, scientific capabilities, and access to growing end markets, which provides a compelling value proposition for both clients and shareholders". 

Charles River Laboratories is an early stage contract research organization (CRO) that provides essential products and services to help pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, and academic institutions around the globe accelerate their research and drug development efforts.