July 2, 2009 - Unilever today announced that it had closed its deal to acquire the sauces business of Baltimor Holding ZAO, the leading ketchup business in Russia, following approval from the Federal Antimonopoly Service.
The acquisition will further strengthen Unilever's existing dressings portfolio and competitive position in Russia, one of its priority countries.
The acquisition includes ketchup, mayonnaise and tomato paste business under the Baltimor, Pomo d' Oro and Vostochniy Gourmand brands - accounting for annual turnover of around €70 million - and a production facility at Kolpino, near St. Petersburg. It excludes Baltimor's branded vegetables, condiment, preserve and juices business and production facilities at Krasnodar and Khabarovsk.
The acquisition consideration was made on a cash- and debt-free basis and was not material to Unilever overall.
About Unilever
Unilever's mission is to add vitality to life. We meet everyday needs for nutrition, hygiene and personal care with brands that help people feel good, look good and get more out of life.
Unilever is one of the world's leading suppliers of fast moving consumer goods with strong local roots in more than 100 countries across the globe. Its portfolio includes some of the world's best known and most loved brands including thirteen €1 billion brands and global leadership in many categories in which the company operates.