Bunzl Expands In Australia And France

06 April 2006

Bunzl plc, the international distribution and outsourcing Group, today announces that it has acquired Allcare Disposable Products Pty Limited from Stewart Smith, Carolyn Smith and Simone Hartin on behalf of themselves and the beneficiaries of the Smith family trust including Maurice Smith.

Allcare is principally engaged in the distribution of personal protection equipment and disposable products to food processors in Australia. Based in Melbourne, Victoria with a location in Queensland, the business had revenue of A$23.0 million in the year ended June 2005. Gross assets acquired are estimated to be A$9.3 million.

Bunzl also announces the acquisition of Picardie Hygiene SA from Arnaud Prouvost. The business, which is based in Amiens and had revenue of €9.9 million in 2005, distributes cleaning and hygiene products in Northeast France. Gross assets acquired are estimated to be €2.8 million.

Commenting on the acquisitions, Michael Roney, Chief Executive of Bunzl, said:

"The acquisition of Allcare increases our presence in the food processor sector in Australia and complements our existing disposables distribution business. Picardie will add further to the cleaning and hygiene business of Groupe Pierre Le Goff, strengthening our position in Northeast France."

Enquiries: