05 Sep 2007 Bunzl to expand in Ireland

Bunzl plc, the international distribution and outsourcing Group, today announces that it has entered into an agreement to acquire DG Distributors and Vendors Limited and its subsidiaries from Brendan Cooney, Dermot Divilly and Greg Lawless.

The business, which is based in Dublin and trades under the name of Irish Merchants, is principally engaged in the distribution of foodservice disposables, janitorial supplies and beverage systems to the horeca, healthcare and retail sectors throughout Ireland.

Revenue in the year ended March 2007 was €45 million and the gross assets to be acquired are estimated to be €11 million. Completion of the acquisition is subject to clearance from the Irish Competition Authority.

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

“The acquisition of Irish Merchants, formerly an associated company of King Benelux which we have recently acquired, is a good strategic fit for Bunzl which will significantly increase the size of our business in Ireland and strengthen our position in this market. We look forward to welcoming the management and all of the staff to the Group.”

Tel: 020 7495 4950

Tulchan
David Allchurch
Stephen Malthouse

Tel: 020 7353 4200