2002
Acquisition Update
Released: 11/12/2002 Grafton Group plc has continued to acquire businesses since its interim announcement on 28 August as part of its ongoing expansion programme. To date Grafton has made a further five acquisitions, adding 15 branches to its UK merchanting network, comprising nine plumbers merchanting and six builders merchanting branches. Since the beginning of the year, the Group's 14 acquisitions costing over €90 million, together with new greenfield locations, have added 50 locations to its UK merchanting network, bringing its total trading locations to 280, with 237 in the UK and 43 in Ireland. New acquisitions and greenfield additions are expected to be earnings neutral in 2002 and to contribute to Group profitability in 2003. The Group's consistent strategic focus on creating a strong merchanting network in the UK with emphasis on the RMI market provides continuing organic and acquisition growth opportunities going forward. We are pleased that Group profits for 2002 remain in line with expectations. Ends Enquiries: Michael Chadwick Joe Murray Ginny Pulbrook |
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