Unilever and EVGA to collaborate in Greek Ice Cream Sector

Unilever and EVGA announced today that they have signed an agreement under which Unilever will acquire EVGA’s ice cream brands (amongst others, Scandal, Variete and Karabola) and distribution network, for an undisclosed amount.

EVGA will retain its existing production and warehousing facilities and will manufacture both the current EVGA and some of Unilever ice cream branded products for the Greek market and for export.

This deal will enrich Unilever’s Greek ice cream portfolio and will increase availability of its products to consumers through the expansion of the distribution network and enhanced innovation.

Unilever Greece’s Chairman, Mr. Spyros Dessyllas, commented: “I am very pleased that Unilever joins forces with EVGA, the company which is responsible for creating the Greek branded ice cream market. This agreement is an important demonstration of Unilever’s commitment to Greece and of its determination to make the most of opportunities for growth, despite the difficult economic environment.”

Recent Unilever investments in Greece include the 100% acquisition of ELAIS S.A. in 2006, the expansion of its manufacturing capabilities in Rentis and the construction of a warehousing and distribution center in Schimatari.

Mr. Kyros Filippou, EVGA’s Vice Chairman stated: “This partnership will build on our combined strengths, and provide continuity, new investments and growth. I am confident that EVGA’s strong heritage and experience will make a major contribution to the continued success of EVGA and Algida ice creams in Greece”.

EVGA’s ice cream turnover in 2009 was Є32 million. As part of the agreement, approximately 65 employees will transfer to Unilever. The agreement is subject to regulatory approval by the Greek competition authorities.

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About Unilever in Greece

Unilever works to create a better future every day. We help people feel good, look good and get more out of life with brands and services that are good for them and good for others.

We are one of the world’s leading suppliers of fast moving consumer goods with strong local roots in more than 100 countries. In Greece, the Unilever group operates in the food, household and personal care sectors through Elais Unilever Hellas. It is one of the largest FMCG companies, with an annual turnover of 598 million euros in 2009. The company distributes approximately 1,800 SKUs and is one of the most important suppliers of retailers, while its products are situated in 35 different spots in the super market shelves. The company’s headquarters are situated in Maroussi, Athens, while it operates four factories in Rentis, Pireaus, Schimatari and Gastouni. Today, Elais Unilever Hellas employs 800 people.This agreement is a new step in Unilever Hellas’ important investment program in Greece. Unilever acquired 100% of ELAIS S.A.’s shares in 2006 and recently invested in broadening its manufacturing base in Greece with the expansion of its factory in Rentis and in the construction of a warehousing and distribution centre in Schimatari.

For more information about Unilever and its brands, please visit www.unilever.gr


Algida - Unilever’s ice cream sector in Greece

Unilever, global leader in ice cream, operates in the Greek market under the Algida brand since 1982. Algida launched innovative and pioneering products, by Greek standards, which were quickly established and created trends in the ice cream market. Among them the well-known brands Magic, Cornetto, Carte D’Or, Solero and Vienetta.

For more information, please visit www.algida.gr


About EVGA

EVGA - A pioneer in the Greek ice cream industry

Since 1934, EVGA a “purely” Greek company, has been innovative and a pioneer in its field, carrying a wide range of products, under successful brands, such as Status, Scandal, 4X4, Karabola and Variete. In 1936, it became the first company to produce branded ice cream in the Greek market. Its production is carried out in its privately owned factory in Votanikos, Athens.