Wienerberger acquires brick activities from Wewers in Denmark
Vienna (ots)
- Acquisition of 2 plants in largest Scandinavian brick market - Wienerberger becomes Nr. 2 in Denmark and Nr. 1 in Scandinavia
Leading market positions
Wienerberger A/S, a wholly owned subsidiary of Wienerberger AG, will acquire the Pedershvile and Prövelyst brick plants owned by Wewers Teglvæker A/S in Denmark through an asset deal. At present Wienerberger A/S holds 45% of the share capital in this listed company. "The acquisition of these production facilities and integration of the Wewers brick activities in our Wienerberger organization in Denmark and Sweden will allow us to utilize important synergies", commented Heimo Scheuch, member of the Managing Board of Wienerberger AG, on the transaction. "This will make us Nr. 2 on the Danish market and Nr. 1 in Scandinavia (Sweden, Norway and Denmark) as a complete supplier of bricks and roof tiles", remarked Scheuch on the significant strengthening of Wienerberger's market position. The parties to the transaction have agreed not to reveal any information on the purchase price.
New sites in growth region
The Pedershvile and Prövelyst plants are located on Sjaelland approx. 35 km north of Copenhagen, and are considered the only important brick production facilities in this relatively closed market. The two plants generated revenues of ¤ 14.4 million in 2003, and have a total capacity of 72 million WF ("Waalformat" = the standard format for facing bricks). These facilities employ a combined workforce of 74 employees. "Pedershvile and Prövelyst are important strategic sites", explained Scheuch. "They are located in the dynamic growth region of Sjaelland and represent an ideal starting point for the expansion of our market presence in Denmark and Sweden - for Wienerberger a further key milestone in the implementation of its profitable growth strategy."
Stable residentialconstruction
Wienerberger currently operates three brick plants in Denmark and one plant each in Sweden and Norway. Residential construction in these countries is expected to remain stable in 2004 and over the coming years.
Contact:
Thomas Melzer
Public and Investor Relations
Phone: +43/1/60192-463
E-Mail: communication@wienerberger.com