Williams sale wipes out debt

Article Abstract:

Williams Holdings has sold 15 building products concerns to a management team. The 360 million pounds sterling sale allows the company to clear its debt and focus on security and fire protection. The companies sold are small and geared to the UK market. Williams is retaining its building materials interests in the US which accounted for more than 33% of sales in 1995. The US will account for 57% of Williams' group sales after the UK building materials companies are sold.

Williams PLC

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Saint-Gobain: a saintly surprise

Article Abstract:

Saint-Gobain has acquired Poliet, a building materials concern. The deal could be finalised over three years, and is complex, including the acquisition of a 56% stake in Poliet from Paribas. Saint-Gobain aims to make its earnings less cyclical, and the acquisition should improve the group's pricing power and strengthen its stake in the French market, according to Emilio Alvarez from Morgan Stanley. Some investors would rather see acquisitions in emerging markets.

Compagnie de Saint-Gobain S.A., Poliet S.A.

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Poison pill to deter Redland's suitors

Article Abstract:

Speculation over a possible takeover of Redland has led to a rise in the company's stock price, but bids could be hampered by the way Redland's holding in RBB is structured. Braas has operational management of RBB, though Redland holds a controlling stake, and Braas is the only potential buyer likely to make a serious offer for RBB. Redland's stock price had performed poorly prior to its revival and this followed poor interim results.

Redland PLC

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