TECHTRONIC IND<0669> - Announcement
Techtronic Industries Company Limited
Announcement
The Company has entered into a non-legally binding letter of intent to
purchase a material portion of the assets of Ryobi Limited's North
American power tool businesses and 100% interest in two of Ryobi Limited's
subsidiaries.
The Company has entered into a non-legally binding letter of intent to
purchase a material portion of the assets of Ryobi Limited's ("Ryobi")
North American power tool businesses and 100% interest in two of Ryobi's
subsidiaries (the "Proposed Transaction"). Ryobi is a company listed on
the Tokyo Stock Exchange and is a global die caster and producer of
finished goods such as printing equipment, sports and leisure products and
power equipment. Ryobi has representatives on the board of directors of
the Company and to the best of the Company's knowledge, is a substantial
shareholder of the Company. The Proposed Transaction is subject to
completion of due diligence, execution of a definitive purchase and sale
agreement and receipt of required approvals. The Company and Ryobi have
yet to agree on the definitive terms of the Proposed Transaction
(including the purchase price). It is, however, contemplated that the
consideration for the Proposed Transaction will be satisfied in cash and
the formal conditional sale and purchase agreement should be signed by the
parties in or about May 2000. The Proposed Transaction, if materialized,
will constitute a notifiable transaction of the Company under the Listing
Rules but will not result in a change in the control of the Company.
The Company is principally engaged in the manufacture and sale of cordless
power tools and other electric products. The Company has long been a major
supplier to Ryobi. The Proposed Transaction, if materialized, will enable
the Company to expand its power tool business to include corded portable
electric tools and benehtop tools, and will enable the Company to
manufacture and sell Ryobi branded power tools in North America.
Shareholders and potential investors should note that the Proposed
Transaction is subject to further negotiations between the parties and may
or may not materialize. Accordingly, shareholders and potential investors
should exercise caution with dealing in the Company's shares.
The Company will make such further announcement as and when there is any
material developments regarding the Proposed Transaction.
By Order of the Board of
Techtronic Industries Company Limited
Chi Chung Chan
Company Secretary
Hong Kong, 29th March 2000
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