Bayer is currently facing demands from activist investor Bluebell Capital Partners to break up the company, including selling the consumer health unit and eventually separating Bayer's pharmaceutical and agriculture businesses.
Markus Manns, portfolio manager at Union Investment, stated that Bayer Chairman Norbert Winkeljohann "does seek dialogue with investors, but he should have initiated more." Manns added that it would have been a matter for the supervisory board to help initiate a spin-off of Consumer Health. He also noted that chairs at competitors are much more actively engaged in creating value for shareholders.
Winkeljohann waited to respond to a request for comment. A spokesperson for Bayer declined to comment on Union Investment's position but stated that the company is generally open to constructive dialogue with stakeholders.
