SAN FRANCISCO, July 5 /PRNewswire/ via NewsEdge Corporation -- Aesculap Inc., which currently has its operations in San Francisco, today announced that it would relocate its headquarters to Bethlehem, PA and its technical service and distribution operations to St. Louis, MO in the fourth quarter 2000.

"There are several reasons for the moves," said Bob Perrett, Aesculap President and Chief Executive Officer. "San Francisco is a wonderful city, but for a growing company, it makes sense to find locations where commercial space and housing are more affordable. By moving our headquarters to Bethlehem, where the U.S. operations of our parent company, B|Braun, are located, we will have better access to B|Braun corporate resources and can foster collaboration with the other B|Braun divisions."

The company chose St. Louis as the location for its distribution and customer service operations because of its centralized location and the pool of experienced surgical instrument technicians in the area. "With our distribution and service facilities in St. Louis, we should be able to significantly reduce our distribution costs and improve response time," Perrett pointed out.

The company will relocate a number of employees, but is also actively recruiting in Bethlehem and St. Louis. "We know that some people we have asked to move with us want to remain in California," Perrett said. "We are very excited about the career opportunities Aesculap can offer. We're a growing company with excellent products, and part of B|Braun, a $2 billion global health care concern. Those interested in applying should visit our website at www.aesculap-usa.com or e-mail aesculap.hr@aesculap.com."