The total consideration of €60 million net of estimated completion balance sheet adjustments of €2.4 million is payable in cash immediately by Gilde and is subject to any post closing balance sheet adjustment which are not expected to be material. The net proceeds from the sale, after costs, will be used to reduce Group borrowings.
Uniq Belgium NV is a leading producer of salad products for the Belgian market. The company is based in Turnhout, North Belgium. The business being sold made EBIT before Group charges of €6.2 million (£4.2 million) in the year to the 31st March 2006 and at that date had gross assets of €58.0 million (£40.5 million). Uniq Belgium will continue in its activities under the new name Hamal Signature NV.
Geoff Eaton, Group Chief Executive said:
“This is another step in our plans to unlock the potential of Uniq by concentrating on those businesses which we believe have the highest potential for improvement in profit and value for shareholders.”.
For further information:
Julian Walker
Gainsborough Communications
Telephone No. +44 (0) 207 190 1705
Martin Beer
Uniq Plc
Telephone No. +44 (0) 1753 276011