Valora Retail to double the size of its outlet network in Germany

With effect from October 1, 2010, Valora Retail will acquire tabacon Franchise GmbH & Co. KG, one of Germany’s leading tobacco product retailers, with a network of some 180 outlets. This will boost Valora Retail’s German outlet network to 380 units, making the division Germany’s second-largest small outlet retailer. The newly acquired units, which cover the whole of Germany, are mostly located in front of the checkout counters of large-scale retail sites (Kaufland, Metro, Rewe) and in shopping centres. The majority of the new outlets are operated on a franchise basis.

Expanded market presence and platform for non-travel retail growth
The acquisition of tabacon Franchise GmbH & Co. KG will raise the number of Valora Retail’s non-travel retail outlets in Germany to 202, thus strengthening the division’s presence in city-centre locations. By integrating the staff currently working in the new outlets, Valora is also acquiring an established, smoothly running franchise model, thus opening up major opportunities in the non-travel retail sector. Synergies in product ranges, costs and, most notably, purchasing further enhance the potential of this acquisition. The new outlets will continue to be supplied by Presse-Grosso, Germany’s press wholesaling association.

Focus on core markets maintained
Currently, Valora Retail operates 200 outlets in Germany, with 2009 sales of CHF 300 million. With its 178 travel retail units located at German railway stations and airports, Valora is already Germany’s market leader in railway station bookselling. Based on the franchise model operating at the newly acquired sites, Valora expects commission fees to increase its revenues significantly. Subject to approval by the Bundeskartellamt, Germany’s independent competition authority, Valora will, with effect from October 1, 2010, operate a total of some 380 small outlet retail units in Germany.

In tabacon Franchise GmbH & Co. KG, Valora is acquiring a company in robust health, with further development potential. The move is commensurate with Valora’s strategic objectives. In the words of Thomas Vollmoeller, the Valora Group’s CEO, “This investment strengthens our position in small outlet retail and creates a good basis for further growth in our core business areas.”

Contact
Valora Holding AG Stefania Misteli Tel. +41 58 789 12 01 Fax +41 58 789 12 12 stefania.misteli@valora.com www.valora.com

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