EANS-News: Valora Holding AG / Valora Trade successfully completes acquisition of Norway´s leading cosmetics distributor Engelschiøn Marwell Hauge AS (EMH)

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Muttenz (euro adhoc) - Valora Trade successfully completes acquisition of
Norway´s leading cosmetics distributor Engelschiøn Marwell Hauge AS (EMH)
- Entry into new product category with strong, selective brands
- Market position in Norway enhanced

On October 15, 2010, Valora successfully completed the acquisition of an 80%
majority stake in the Norwegian firm EMH. The transaction provides Valora with
control of Norway´s leading cosmetics distributor, thus enabling the Group to
invest in a new and growing product segment. Extending its existing portfolio in
this way is not only commensurate with Valora Trade´s chosen strategic
direction, but also strengthens the company´s position in Norway, one of its
most promising markets for future development.

Valora Trade is already one of Europe´s largest distributors of branded goods to
the organised retail sector. By adding EMH´s current staff of some 110 employees
headed by managing director Peder Madsen and, noted for their high standards of
professionalism, to its ranks, Valora will also further enhance its distribution
skills.

This acquisition has been fully financed from current cash flow. Both parties
have agreed not to disclose the purchase price or other details of the
agreement. Ellinor Sæther, the previous owner, will maintain a minority stake of
20%. She will also take a seat on the new board of directors, providing valuable
know-how and expertise.

*****
EMH Engelschiøn Marwell Hauge
Founded in 1927, EMH holds 35% of the Norwegian cosmetics market, making it
Norway´s leading distributor and marketer of cosmetic products. The firm´s 2009
sales were somewhat over NOK 400 million (approximately CHF 70 million). EMH´s
principal portfolio encompasses more than 50 exclusive brands, such as Calvin
Klein, Chanel, Clarins, Dolce & Gabbana, Guerlain, Hugo Boss, IsaDora, La
Prairie, Max Factor, Paco Rabanne, Shiseido and Versace. The firm currently
employs some 110 staff.
*****

Further inquiry note:
Investor Relations: Tel: +41 58 789 12 20
Mladen Tomic E-Mail: [email protected]

Media Relations: Tel: +41 58 789 12 01
Stefania Misteli E-Mail: [email protected]
end of announcement euro adhoc
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company: Valora Holding AG
Hofackerstrasse 40
CH-4132 Muttenz
phone: +41 61 467 20 20
FAX: +41 58 789 12 12
mail: [email protected]
WWW: www.valora.com
sector: Retail
ISIN: CH0002088976
indexes:
stockmarkets: stock market: BX Berne eXchange, Main Standard: SIX Swiss Exchange
language: English

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