Leiden/Veghel, 17 September 2002

Sligro acquires horecagroothandel Loek den Elzen
Sligro Beheer N.V. and Horeca Groothandel Loek den Elzen B.V. announce that it is reasonable to suppose that agreement will be reached on the acquisition of the business of Horeca Groothandel Loek den Elzen B.V. by Sligro B.V.

Loek den Elzen is a catering supplier operating a delivery service to customers across the province of Zuid-Holland. The company achieved a turnover in 2001 of almost €7 million, and has a workforce of 15 on a full-time equivalent basis. The customer base mainly comprises hotels, restaurants and cafes.

Loek den Elzen's activities will continue to be carried on from the existing premises in Leiden for the time being.

The takeover of Loek den Elzen is in line with Sligro's strategy of strengthening its position as a one-stop supplier to all food professionals. The acquisition is expected to be completed during October. The employees' organisations and the other relevant bodies have been advised in accordance with the SER's Merger Code. The effect on employment will be beneficial.

Sligro Beheer N.V. is a full-service wholesaler for all food professionals across the Netherlands. Sligro runs a finely-meshed network of 42 outlets, trading under the names Sligro, Prisma Food Groep, Van Hoeckel Grootverbruik, Sligro Fresh Partners, EMTÉ and Rosenberg. Sligro recorded turnover of €1,171.9 million and a net profit of €25.3 million in 2001. The average number of employees (full-time equivalents) was more than 2,100.

For further information:
Sligro Beheer N.V.
A. Slippens
H. van Rozendaal
Tel. +31 413 343500

Horeca Groothandel Loek den Elzen B.V.
L. den Elzen
Tel. +31 71 531 8183