30/05: Otsuka Pharm. to Acquire 49 Pct of French Beverage Maker Alma
Category: General
Posted by: Newtone Pharm
Tokyo, May 28, 2008 (Jiji Press) - Otsuka Pharmaceutical Co. said Wednesday that it has acquired a 49 pct equity stake in French beverage maker Alma SA for 750 million euros, making it an affiliate under the equity method.
Otsuka, which will send two directors to Alma, bought the stake from a French investment firm that owned all Alma shares.
Through Alma's marketing network, Otsuka plans to sell beverages and food products in Europe and expand its mineral water business. It will also consider the possibility of selling its Pocari Sweat sports drink and supplements in the region.
The Otsuka group is strengthening its mineral water business in Japan, where its lineup includes Crystal Geyser and Alma's Crystalline.
Through subsidiaries, Otsuka and Alma have already established a joint venture to make and sell mineral water in the United States. The latest investment is designed to strengthen ties between the two companies.
Otsuka, which will send two directors to Alma, bought the stake from a French investment firm that owned all Alma shares.
Through Alma's marketing network, Otsuka plans to sell beverages and food products in Europe and expand its mineral water business. It will also consider the possibility of selling its Pocari Sweat sports drink and supplements in the region.
The Otsuka group is strengthening its mineral water business in Japan, where its lineup includes Crystal Geyser and Alma's Crystalline.
Through subsidiaries, Otsuka and Alma have already established a joint venture to make and sell mineral water in the United States. The latest investment is designed to strengthen ties between the two companies.
