Lakewood, Colo. — MWI Veterinary Supply, Inc. intends to buy the American Animal Hospital Association's MARKETLink for $10 million in cash. 

The deal, announced by MWI to its shareholders on Wednesday, also includes a long-term sponsorship and licensing agreement between AAHA and the company, which distributes animal-health products nationally. The acquisition, still subject to negotiation, is scheduled to close by July 15. 

While AAHA had not formally announced the agreement at press time, leaders confirmed the proposal to the Veterinary Information Network. According to the group's Web site, MARKETLINK provides drugs and supplies to AAHA members, billing the service as a "time and money-saving solution." MWI reports the for-profit business earned approximately $40 million during its fiscal year ending June 30, 2007. 

"We are very pleased to be entering into this relationship with MWI, and believe that all AAHA members will benefit from the enhanced quality of services that will result," AAHA Executive Director John Albers, DVM, says an MWI news release. 

Jim Cleary, MWI president and chief executive officer adds: "The American Animal Hospital Association is a very important organization that provides valuable services and information to the veterinary profession. We are excited about our relationship with AAHA, our acquisition of AAHA MARKETLink, and providing AAHA members with a high-level of customer service from MWI's thirteen distribution centers and over 300 MWI sales representatives."