In August 24, 2018, Haniel signed an agreement to sell 7.3 per cent of the issued ordinary shares of METRO AG to EP Global Commerce I (EPGC). Haniel, the largest single shareholder of METRO AG, has also agreed with EPGC I that they may acquire up to 15.2 per cent of the issued ordinary shares of METRO AG under a call option.
On September 20, 2018, EP Global Commerce II GmbH (EPGC II) was able to sign an agreement with CECONOMY to acquire a 3.6 per cent stake of shares of METRO AG. In addition, EPGC II has agreed with CECONOMY on an option scheme regarding the acquisition of additional approximately 5.4 per cent of the shares in METRO which will be exercised prospectively within the next 9 months.
METRO AG is a strong brand and established player that operates in a very dynamic market environment. We believe in the company’s potential based on its market presence and strong relationships with a broad customer base as well as the skills and expertise of its employees.