Takeover of Ven by Sligro Food Group completed
Today saw the signing of the finalised contracts for the acquisition of Ven Groothandelcentrum B.V. by Sligro Food Group N.V. The intended takeover was announced on 23 July 2004.
The Netherlands Competition Authority (NMa) has cleared the takeover and the staff councils have recommended in favour of the transaction.
Ven’s financial information will be included in the Sligro Food Group consolidation with effect from the beginning of the fourth quarter.
Ven operates five Ven International Fresh Markets (in Diemen, Rotterdam, The Hague, Cuyk and Alkmaar), two Ven Wholesale Centres (in The Hague and Haarlem) and four Ven IJsland and Foodservice Centres (in Amsterdam, Naarden, Barendrecht and The Hague). Ven also has a 75% interest in Pébé Food, Almelo. Ven also produces high-quality meal components under the Maison Niels de Veye label. Ven’s head office is in Diemen. All of Ven’s wholesale activities are customer-centred and quality-driven, with the emphasis on fresh produce, combining attractive prices and an extensive product range for the professional market. The outlets have an average floor area of 6,000 m˛. With a staff of 950 full-time equivalents, Ven achieved a turnover of € 235 million, an operating result of € 4 million and a net profit of € 2 million in 2003.
Sligro Food Group, a quoted company, encompasses food retail and food service companies selling directly and indirectly to the entire Dutch market for food and beverages. Sligro Food Group aims to be a consistent quality company, achieving controlled growth in all its activities and for all its stakeholders. Turnover in 2003 amounted to € 1,356 million and net profit was almost € 45 million. The average number of full-time equivalent employees was 2,746.
Veghel, 21 September 2004
Sligro Food Group N.V.
A.J.L. Slippens
H.L. van Rozendaal
Tel. +31 413 343 500
