Press release Pofroad/Alpkit
The press release is also available at Alpkit press centre.
English - Anglais
French - FrançaisAlpkit To Acquire Pofroad for undisclosed sum
Combination Will Create New European Wide Climbing Initiatives
Ilkeston, Derbyshire, April 1, 2007 - Alpkit Ltd. (FTSE: AKIT) announced today that it has agreed to acquire Pofroad, the French climbing media website, for an undisclosed cash transaction. Following the acquisition, Pofroad will operate independently to preserve its successful brand identity and loyal Pof readership.
The acquisition combines one of the largest and fastest growing online climbing communities with Alpkit's expertise in marketing, product development and media innovation. The combined companies will focus on providing a better, more comprehensive experience for visitors interested in climbing activities, and will offer new, yet to be revealed European wide initiatives.
"The 'Pof' team has built an exciting and powerful media platform that complements Alpkit's global ambitions to equip people with the best possible outdoor gear," said Nick Smith, Chief Executive of Alpkit. "Our companies share similar values; we both put our visitors first and are committed to innovating and improving our visitors experience. Together, we are natural partners to offer compelling media entertainment and shopping service."
"Our community has played a vital role in changing the way that people consume media, creating a new click culture. By joining forces with Alpkit, we can benefit from its global reach to deliver a more comprehensive entertainment experience for our users and to create new opportunities for our partners," said lOulou, CEO and Co-Founder of Pofroad. "I'm confident that with this partnership we'll have the flexibility and resources needed to pursue our goal of building the next-generation platform for serving climbing content worldwide."
Pat, the distinctive face of Pofroad will play an active role in the new partnership. "Pat is an iconic figure in the French climbing scene" said Alpkit's marketing supremo Colin Stocker, "We have been following his career for sometime and consider him to be the ideal choice as Alpkit's European Ambassador. People like and associate with what he stands for. We expect the British climbing community will welcome him and readily identify with his ethics."
When the acquisition is complete, Pofroad will retain its distinct brand identity, strengthening and complementing Alpkit's own fast-growing customer base. Pofroad will continue to be based in Villeneuve d'Ascq, France, and all Pofroad employees will remain with the company. With Alpkit's technology, advertiser relationships and global reach, Pofroad will continue to build on its success as one of France's most important voices on the climbing scene.
About Alpkit Ltd.
Alpkit™ has been designing and selling products for alpine activities since the good old days. Alpkit.com™ is an online only brand, selling direct, around the world, with the minimum of fuss. Alpkit products are competitively priced and supported by excellent customer service. Alpkit's innovative and ground breaking approach is extending across Europe with offices in the UK, Italy and now France. For more information visit www.alpkit.com.
About Pofroad
From its beginnings Pofroad© is gradually expressing itself as one of the most active climbing websites. Determinedly unrealistic tone, enthusiastic dynamics and a incredible Pat Le Lego have convinced an active and involded reader base, benefiting the whole climbing community. Ambitions and good ideas will be put into concrete form thanks to this great partnership. For more information visit www.pofroad.com.
Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Statements
This document includes certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding Alpkit's and Pofroad's ability to improve their services, create new business models and content-owner opportunities, integration plans, the expected timing for the closing of the acquisition and the plans to operate Pofroad independently. These statements are based on the current expectations or beliefs of management of Alpkit Ltd., and should be taken with a pinch of salt.
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