17th Jul 2006 16:07
ASHTEAD GROUP PLC Potential acquisition in the United States The Board of Directors of Ashtead Group plc ("Ashtead") notes today's movementin the share price and is taking this opportunity to announce that it is inadvanced, exclusive discussions regarding a potential acquisition of a leadingprovider of equipment rental services in the United States for a considerationof approximately US$1,000 million.The acquisition would be significantly earnings enhancing in the financial yearending April 2008, the first full year of operation of the enlarged group. Anytransaction would be subject to Ashtead shareholder approval and would befunded, in part, through a rights issue of ‚£150 million. There can be noassurance that the transaction will proceed.A further announcement will be made in due course.Contacts:AshteadCob Stenham, Non-executive Chairman +44 (0) 20 7299 5562George Burnett, Chief Executive +44 (0) 1372 362 300Ian Robson, Finance Director +44 (0) 1372 362 300MaitlandBrian Hudspith +44 (0) 20 7379 5151ENDASHTEAD GROUP PLCRelated Shares:
Ashtead Group