Of course Merck doesn't *need* UNVC. Merck needs a division to handle the cannabis drugs, and an entity who will undertake the challenge. A company that will be dedicated to cannabis formulations only. It just so happens it IS Univec who will be filling this new niche position. Could have been another company, but this is the only one Merck's long time friend and business associates Doc Dalton has ready right now.
http://theconversation.com/the-most-powerful-...merck-3187