The Munich-based industrial holding AURELIUS today agreed with the families Berentzen, Wolff, Pabst und Richarz on the acquisition of 75.1 % of the ordinary shares of the heritage company Berentzen. As premium beverage producer Berentzen Group is well-established in the German market with numerous brands like Puschkin Vodka, Doornkaat, Bommerlunder and the core brand Berentzen. Moreover, the company markets international license brands such as Licor 43 and Linie Aquavit. As biggest German licensee of Pepsi Cola and producer of wellness and refreshment drinks Berentzen is also successful in the market for non-alcoholic beverages.

In fiscal year 2007 Berentzen Group generated gross revenues of EUR 432.7 million and a negative operating income. Reasons for the negative development in the past were strategic differences. After the realignment of the strategy AURELIUS aims for quick return to profitable growth at Berentzen.

Family member Friedrich Berentzen senior comments on the takeover, 'We have been struggling hard finding the optimal solution. With AURELIUS we have finally found a partner who is building up on our 250 years of tradition and offers a good home for employees, customers and suppliers.' Donatus Albrecht, member of the managing board of AURELIUS, welcomes the new member in the AURELIUS family, 'Berentzen has a very strong brand portfolio. We are planning to give new life especially to the old classics and to reposition them as trend-setting lifestyle brands with high awareness in the market. We want Berentzen to grow abroad as well.

Especially in the market for premium spirits long-established German brands have regained cult status in this country through a successful market entry in the USA for example.' To all shareholders of Berentzen-Gruppe AG AURELIUS is making an official takeover bid for their shares. The company published further information on the internet at www.aureliusinvest.de/angebot.

With this largest transaction in company history AURELIUS breaks the billion euro barrier in annualized sales revenues. Due to an unbroken dynamic in acquisition efforts the managing board aims for further acquisitions as well as first sales ('exits') in the second half of the year.

In the course of the transaction the investment bank Sal. Oppenheim jr. & Cie. acted as an advisor to AURELIUS.