Following constructive discussions with the European Commission in the pre-notification period and throughout its Phase I investigation, Holcim and Lafarge have now finalised the
list of assets for divestment in Europe, which with the exception of a very slight change in
France essentially corresponds to the list presented in October (see the complete final list here).
"We are very pleased with the positive decision of the European Commission. It also reflects the quality of the preparatory work performed by both teams so far in creating the most advanced company in our industry. With this decision, we remain firmly on track for a closing in the first half of 2015”, comment Professor Dr Wolfgang Reitzle, designated Chairman of the Board of Directors and Bruno Lafont, designated CEO of the future combined company.
Lafarge and Holcim continue to actively pursue negotiations for the sale of these assets with potential buyers, who will have to be pre-approved by the European Commission. The divestments remain subject to the completion of the merger, including a successful public
exchange offering and approval by Holcim’s shareholders in the second quarter of 2015.
The divestment process will be carried out in the framework of the relevant social processes and the ongoing dialogue with the employee representatives’ bodies.
In the remaining jurisdictions where regulatory clearance is still pending, both companies will continue to cooperate with the relevant authorities to satisfy regulatory requirements.
The closing of the planned merger is expected in H1 2015, with the aim of creating the most balanced and diversified portfolio in the industry, operating in 90 countries and creating superior value for its stakeholders and customers.
About Holcim
Holcim is a global leader in the manufacture and distribution of cement and aggregates (crushed stone, gravel, and sand), as well as other activities, including ready-mix concrete, asphalt, and associated services. The company holds majority and minority shareholdings in some 70 countries and on every continent. In 2013, Holcim recorded net sales of over 19.7 billion Swiss francs. Thanks to our market-oriented structures, product
innovations, skilled employees and efficient environmental management systems, Holcim is in a strong position now - and for years.
More information is available on Holcim website site: www.holcim.com.
About Lafarge
A world leader in building materials, Lafarge employs 64,000 people in 62 countries, and posted sales of €15.2 billion in 2013. As a top-ranking player in its Cement, Aggregates and Concrete businesses, it contributes to the construction of cities around the world, through its innovative solutions providing them with more housing and making them more compact, more durable, more beautiful, and better connected. With the world’s leading
building materials research facility, Lafarge places innovation at the heart of its priorities in order to contribute to more sustainable construction and to better serve architectural creativity.
More information is available on Lafarge's website: www. lafarge.com.
