Cambridge, UK – British medical technology company CMR Surgical, developer of the next-generation Versius surgical robot, is reportedly exploring a potential sale valued at around $4 billion, according to sources familiar with the matter. The move comes at a pivotal moment as the company expands globally and strengthens its foothold in the highly competitive robotic-assisted surgery market.
Versius: A Scalable Alternative in Robotic Surgery
Since its commercial launch in 2019, Versius has carved out a distinct position in the field of minimal access surgery. Unlike larger and more rigid robotic platforms, Versius offers a modular, portable design, making it adaptable to a variety of surgical settings — from major hospitals to outpatient surgery centers.
One of its key differentiators is the open console, which allows surgeons to operate either seated or standing while maintaining clear communication with the rest of the surgical team. Its patented V-Wrist technology mimics the human wrist with full 360-degree articulation, enabling greater precision and reducing surgeon fatigue.
Now used in more than 30 countries across over 30,000 procedures, Versius supports a broad range of surgeries in general surgery, gynecology, and urology. In October 2024, the system received FDA clearance in the United States for gallbladder removal surgeries in adult patients — a key milestone that signals entry into the world’s largest healthcare market.
Strong Financial Backing and Manufacturing Capabilities
Founded in 2014, CMR Surgical has raised more than $1 billion in funding from global investors. In 2021, it secured a record-breaking $600 million Series D round, led by SoftBank Vision Fund 2, which valued the company at $3 billion.
Earlier this year, in April 2025, CMR announced a $200 million capital raise aimed at accelerating commercial efforts in the U.S. and Asia. The company also opened a new manufacturing facility in Ely, Cambridgeshire, capable of producing up to 500 Versius systems annually, to meet growing international demand.
Strategic Review: Preparing for the Next Stage
As reported by The Times and The Financial Times, CMR is currently weighing strategic options, including a full or partial sale. While no formal process has been announced, the company is understood to be in early discussions with advisors. Potential suitors may include major medtech players or private equity firms with a growing interest in surgical robotics.
The timing appears well considered: CMR has a validated product, regulatory approvals in key markets, and an installed base generating recurring revenues through service and consumables. A strategic sale could provide the resources and scale needed to compete more aggressively against industry giants such as Intuitive Surgical, Medtronic, and Johnson & Johnson.
Outlook
CMR Surgical stands at a crossroads — between independent growth and becoming part of a larger strategic platform. What’s clear is that Versius has already disrupted the robotics space with a more flexible and user-friendly system. Whether through continued independence or acquisition, CMR’s technology is poised to play a key role in the next era of surgical care.
###
Leave a Reply