Richemont acquires Roger Dubuis watches

Luxury group Richemont has acquired a controlling interest in the well known Geneva watch company, Manufacture Roger Dubuis SA in a private transaction. Manufacture Roger Dubuis SA will continue to manufacture and distribute watches under the Dubuis’ name and will operate as an autonomous 'Maison' within Richemont. Roger Dubuis will benefit from broader integration of its distribution into the Richemont structure as a consequence of the transaction. Commenting on the transaction, Mr Johann Rupert, Executive Chairman of Richemont, said: "Roger Dubuis watches are highly innovative in terms of movements and design. As a young business, it is very different from the more established specialist watchmakers within the Group today; as such it complements our Maisons perfectly. We look forward to developing the Roger Dubuis business internationally." The transaction will have no material impact on Richemont's consolidated net assets and is not expected to have any significant impact on the Group's overall profitability for the year ending 31 March 2009.