Sanoma Magazines, part of the SanomaWSOY Group, has acquired through its subsidiary, Uitgevers Maatschappij, a Belgian magazine publisher EPN International. EPN International will be consolidated to Sanoma Magazines as of September 1, 2006.
EPN International is Belgium's leading niche publisher in the home and decoration segment and market leader in the green and hobby segment. It publishes 17 magazines in Belgium and the Netherlands. As a spin-off, EPN International has some small operations in Germany and France. The consolidated net sales of EPN International amounted to EUR 10.6 million in 2005.
EPN International's portfolio, which includes successful magazine brands such as Special Wonen Engelse Stijl, Special Decoreren, and Special Bloemschikken, is complementary to the portfolio of Uitgevers Maatschappij. Uitgevers Maatschappij already publishes the lifestyle magazines Loving You, Attitude, and CommunieKrant and is substantially expanding its niche activities with this acquisition.
- With this acquisition we are strengthening the position of Uitgevers Maatschappij in the niche magazine segment. By expanding the home and decoration, building and renovation, gardening and hobby sectors, we are able to further develop the existing activities and embark on new activities, says Philip Van Bost, President of Uitgevers Maatschappij.
EPN International employs 45 people, of which most are located in Belgium and the Netherlands. The current management will stay on at EPN International.
Additional information: Philip Van Bost, President, Uitgevers Maatschappij, tel +32 (0)477 48 48 50
SANOMAWSOY CORPORATION
Matti Salmi
Senior Vice President
Finance and Administration
DISTRIBUTION
Helsinki Stock Exchange
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