The British SMITHKLINE BEECHAM (turnover of USD 12.55 billion in 1999 of which 4.06 billion made in hygiene products and self medication) announced the acquisition of the American firm BLOCK DRUG (dental hygiene, turnover of USD 864.3 million forecasted for the financial year ending 31 March 2000 with a workforce of 3,000 people) for USD 1.24 billion, or USD 53 per share.