Jun 1 2009
On December 25, 2008, Haldex AB (STO:HLDX) announced an agreement with Suzuki Metal Industry Co., Ltd., a Japanese manufacturer of steel wire, to divest its division Garphyttan Wire. All closing conditions with respect to the divestment have been fulfilled and the closing of the transaction was completed today, effective as of June 1, 2009.
The purchase price which on a cash and debt free basis 1) is SEK 827 million , has been received as per today, June 1, 2009. The divestment decreases Haldex's proforma net debt to approximately SEK 1,8 billion as per March 31, 2009. The transaction is still estimated to result in a capital gain of approximately SEK 400 million.
"With the divestment of Garphyttan Wire, Haldex is focusing on segments where the Group can achieve intra-group synergies and sustainable market positions based on innovative and leading products, providing a foundation for long-term growth and good profitability", says Joakim Olsson, President and CEO of Haldex. "With the divestment Haldex has taken a further step to optimize the Group structure and thereby become more focused on technological leadership within niches for the global vehicle industry with strong growth potential." Customer demands and stricter regulations within areas such as safety, environment and vehicle dynamics, form the basis and driving forces for Haldex's strategy. Through an increased focus within these areas, Haldex meets and exceeds the demands for products with improved safety, as well as products with a focus on emission reduction and fuel efficiency that is a consequence of stricter regulations on the Group's main markets.