10.07.2007, Acquisition of Map Merchant Group by Antalis
Sequana Capital announces the acquisition of Map Merchant Group by Antalis which becomes #1 in paper distribution in Europe.
|
Further to its strategic refocus on the paper market, Sequana Capital confirms its ambitions in this sector with the acquisition by Antalis – its fully-owned subsidiary – of Map Merchant Group, the paper merchanting division of M-real. Map ranks #4 in the European paper distribution market with turnover of Euro 1.4 billion in 2006 and 2,400 employees. Operating in 23 countries, the company is present in 3 business areas: - paper for printers, publishers and advertising agencies - office paper for industrial and services companies (banks, insurance, etc.) - specialty papers (papers, foam boards, plastics) This acquisition, for a total consideration of Euro 382 million, creates the N°1 (#4 worldwide) in paper distribution in Europe with annual turnover of Euro 3.7 Billion, annual volume of 3 millions tonnes of paper, 8,400 employees and a presence in 44 countries, of which 30 are in Europe. This acquisition, which is subject to the approval of Competition authorities, will enable Antalis: - to enlarge its presence in - to hold sound leadership positions in each country where it operates - to increase its turnover by 38% and its sales volumes by 46% and to improve its operational efficiency - and lastly to enrich its product range thereby offering an even more efficient service to its customers. The combination of both companies will generate significant synergies in terms of supply chain optimisation, geography and product range complementarities. This transaction takes place while Antalis operates in a more favourable environment, the improvement in market conditions recorded in the first quarter having been confirmed in the second quarter. It illustrates Sequana Capital’s intention, in future years, to actively manage its assets portfolio and its activities, which could involve acquisitions and disposals, in order to optimise the value creation for its shareholders. Tiberto Ruy Brandolini d’Adda, Sequana Capital Chairman, and |






