/raid1/www/Hosts/bankrupt/TCREUR_Public/040909.mbx
T R O U B L E D C O M P A N Y R E P O R T E R
E U R O P E
Thursday, September 9, 2004, Vol. 5, No. 179
Headlines
G E R M A N Y
BOIZENBURGER GERUSTBAU: Deadline for Filing of Claims Sept. 24
CASALOGIC GMBH: Last Day for Filing Claims September 28
CELANESE AG: Posts New Prices for Acetyl Products
GARANT SCHUH: Files for Insolvency
GRUBE MASCHINEN: Creditors Final Meeting October 13
GULDE KUCHEN: Court Appoints Insolvency Administrator
JB TECHNIK: Deadline for Filing of Claims September 24
MRP ERLEBNISGASTRONOMIE: Creditors' Claims Due September 30
TANA INFORMATIONSSYSTEME: Claims Deadline Expires Next Week
VERWALTUNGSGESELLSCHAFT SPORTHOTEL: Creditors to Meet October 12
I R E L A N D
ABBEY THEATRE: Axing 30 to Offset EUR500,000 Cash Shortfall
ELAN CORPORATION: Invited to Present at Bear Stearns Conference
I T A L Y
ALITALIA SPA: CEO Has Less than a Week to Get Workers' Nod
PARMALAT U.S.A.: Wants to Employ Mahoney Cohen as Accountants
SEAT PG: First-half EBITDA Slightly Up
N E T H E R L A N D S
NUMICO N.V.: Wraps up Buyout of Finnish Baby Food Brands
ROYAL SHELL: Athabasca Project Sets Production Record
ROYAL SHELL: Sells Belgian Interests to Tractebel
N O R W A Y
AKER KVAERNER: Wins GBP35 Mln Contract from U.K.'s Total
P O L A N D
ELEKTRIM SA: EBRD Defers Decision on EUR75 Million Loan
R U S S I A
KALUGA-AGRO-PROM-ENERGO: Names I. Smirnov Insolvency Manager
KERAMIK: Court Sets October 26 Hearing
KRASNOUFIMSKAYA GARMENT: Succumbs to Bankruptcy
MALAKHOVSKOYE RING: Under Bankruptcy Supervision
NARYSHKINSKOYE BREAD: Orel Court Appoints Insolvency Manager
NOVOKUZNETSKAYA GEOLOGIC-GEOPHYSICAL: Declared Insolvent
OLYMSKY SUGAR: Gives Creditors Until September 19 to File Claims
PENZA CITY-SOVIET: Undergoes External Management Procedure
PODOLSKY ELECTRO-MECHANICAL: Under Bankruptcy Supervision
PROMORSKY FISH: Bankruptcy Proceedings Begin
ROS-MYAS-MOL-PROM: Court Sets September 23 Hearing
SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH: Under Bankruptcy Supervision
TERRA-TECHNOLOGY: Deadline for Filing of Claims September 19
ULAN-UDENSKY: Gives Creditors Until September 19 to File Claims
ULYANOVSKOYE TRADE: Insolvency Manager Takes over Helm
YUGO-KAMSKY: Perm Court Opens Bankruptcy Proceedings
YUKOS OIL: Second-quarter, First-half Oil Production Up
YUKOS OIL: Hearing on Tax Cases to Continue Next Week
YUKOS OIL: To Contest Order to Pay Tax Bill for 2001
ZAP-SIB: Bankruptcy Case Pending in Tomsk Arbitration Court
U K R A I N E
AGROZAPCHASTINA: Under Bankruptcy Supervision
CHERNIGIV' DRUZHBA: Court Orders Debt Moratorium
DERAZHNYA' SUGAR: Public Auction of Assets Set September 16
KRASNOPILSKE AUTO 15940: Court Appoints Insolvency Manager
KRUSHINKA-GARDEN: Proofs of Claim Deadline Set September 17
LIPOVODOLINSKE: Sumi Court Opens Bankruptcy Proceedings
MTS-SOUTH: Bankruptcy Supervision Begins
SHUMSKIJ AGROPOSTACH: Last Day for Filing Claims September 17
TECHNOFTEROS: Proofs of Claim Deadline Expires September 17
TERA LTD.: Court Affirms Insolvency
VELIKOCHERNECHINSKA: Names Yurij Hovrin Insolvency Manager
U N I T E D K I N G D O M
ABBEY INDUSTRIAL: Names Joint Liquidators from CBA
ABERDEEN DEVELOPMENT: Plans to Repay Existing Zeros
ACM PAPER: Calls in Liquidator
ANDREW LOWE: Appoints Liquidator
AUTOMOTIVE PRECISION: In Creditors' Voluntary Liquidation
BAXTER RESOURCING: Creditors to Meet Friday
BAY MANUFACTURING: Hires Joint Liquidators from PKF
B & B TRANSPORT: In Administrative Receivership
BED AND BREAKFAST: Barclays Bank Appoints KPMG Receiver
BIRKBY'S LIMITED: Members Final General Meeting Set September 30
BRITISH ENERGY: Warns of Insolvency if Rescue Plan Fails
BROWNS FINE: Names Liquidator from Tomlinsons
COMPLETE HANDLING: HSBC Bank Appoints P&A Partnership Receiver
DAMHEAD ENERGY: Names Ernst & Young Liquidator
DAWSON INTERNATIONAL: Sells Joseph Dawson for GBP6.6 Million
DELPHUS UK: Calls in Liquidators from PKF
DELTANOTE LIMITED: Names Joint Liquidators from KPMG
DETECTAPLANT LTD.: May Appoint Liquidator September 14
FAST RETAILING: Hires Joint Liquidators from KPMG
INGLEBY (591): Winding up Resolutions Passed
JARVIS PLC: Sells Bidding and Management Operations
JARVIS PLC: Names Alistair Rae New Finance Director
KNIGHT FINANCIAL: Members Agree to Wind up Business
KNOWLEDGE 111: Appoints DTE Leonard Curtis Administrator
MARCONI CORPORATION: Pays US$1.2 Billion Assumed Debt
MCGOVERN TAVERNS: Winding up Resolutions Passed
PERTESCO LIMITED: Subjoined Special Winding up Resolution Passed
QUALITY APPLIANCES: Meeting of Creditors Tuesday
QUARMBY & SON: Father and Son Earn Disqualifications
READS DISTRIBUTION: Insolvency Service Bans Five Directors
REDSTAR MARKETING: Sets Creditors Meeting September 15
SKYDUSK LIMITED: Names Wilder Coe Liquidator
SKYEPHARMA PLC: 2004 Interim Results Out September 15
SUNDERLAND FOOD: Creditors Meeting Set September 24
THORNTONS PLC: Reports Higher Full-year Pre-tax Profit
URBANROSE LTD.: Creditors to Meet September 17
W G ALLEN: Names Joint Liquidators from Deloitte & Touche
WIMCO GROUP: Hires Joint Administrators from UHY Hacker Young
W M ENGINEERING: Names DTE Leonard Curtis Administrator
*********
=============
G E R M A N Y
=============
BOIZENBURGER GERUSTBAU: Deadline for Filing of Claims Sept. 24
--------------------------------------------------------------
The district court of Schwerin opened bankruptcy proceedings
against Boizenburger Gerustbau GmbH on August 16. Consequently,
all pending proceedings against the company have been
automatically stayed. Creditors have until September 24, 2004
to register their claims with court-appointed provisional
administrator Dr. Mark Zeuner.
Creditors and other interested parties are encouraged to attend
the meeting on October 25, 2004, 10:45 a.m. at which time the
administrator will present his first report of the insolvency
proceedings. The court will also verify the claims set out in
the administrator's report during this meeting, while creditors
may constitute a creditors committee and or opt to appoint a new
insolvency manager.
CONTACT: BOIZENBURGER GERUSTBAU GMBH
GF, Wolfgang Syring,
Bahnhofstr. 6, 19258 Boizenburg
Dr. Mark Zeuner, Insolvency Administrator
Beethovenstr. 13, 19053 Schwerin
CASALOGIC GMBH: Last Day for Filing Claims September 28
-------------------------------------------------------
The insolvency court of the district of Wolfratshausen opened
bankruptcy proceedings against Casalogic GmbH on August 23.
Consequently, all pending proceedings against the company have
been automatically stayed. Creditors have until September 28,
2004 to register their claims with court-appointed provisional
administrator Barbara Grain von Bullion.
Creditors and other interested parties are encouraged to attend
the meeting on October 28, 2004, 9:00 a.m. at BahnhofstraBe 18,
Sitzungssaal 3/I at which time the administrator will present
his first report of the insolvency proceedings. The court will
also verify the claims set out in the administrator's report
during this meeting, while creditors may constitute a creditors
committee and or opt to appoint a new insolvency manager.
CONTACT: CASALOGIC GMBH
Berger Weg 7 in 83623 Dietramszell
Barbara Grafin von Bullion, Insolvency Administrator
Beuerberger StraBe 14, 82515
Wolfratshausen
Phone: 08171/423040
Fax: 08171/423034
CELANESE AG: Posts New Prices for Acetyl Products
-------------------------------------------------
Celanese Chemicals will increase off-list selling prices on
these Acetyl products effective October 1, 2004, or as contracts
allow.
Product USA, South and Europe,
Canada & Central America Africa, Middle East
Mexico
US$/LB. US$/MT EUR/MT
Acetic Acid
(all grades) US$0.04 US$90 EUR75
Vinyl Acetate US$0.04 US$90 EUR75
Acetic Anhydride US$0.02 US$45 EUR35
About Celanese Chemicals and Celanese AG
Celanese Chemicals, a world leader in the production of acetyls
products and their derivatives, including polyvinyl alcohol and
emulsions, is a business of Celanese AG. Celanese Chemicals is
headquartered in Dallas, Texas, and achieved sales of around
EUR2.7 billion in 2003. It employs approximately 4,000 people
worldwide and operates 14 production facilities and three
research centers in the United States, Germany, Canada, Mexico,
Singapore, Spain, Sweden and Slovenia.
Celanese AG is a global chemicals company with leading positions
in its key products and world-class process technology. The
Celanese portfolio consists of four main businesses: Chemical
Products, Technical Polymers Ticona, Acetate Products and
Performance Products. The Performance Products business
consists of Nutrinova sweeteners and food ingredients. Celanese
generated sales of around EUR4.1 billion in 2003 and has about
9,500 employees. The company has 24 production plants and six
research centers in 10 countries mainly in North America, Europe
and Asia.
* * *
Celanese AG reported a second quarter operating profit of EUR54
million compared to EUR109 million in the same period last year,
which included EUR90 million of insurance recoveries related to
the previously disclosed plumbing litigation cases. In its
second quarter 2004 report, the company had a net loss for the
period of EUR91 million, or EUR1.85 per share, compared to net
earnings of EUR96 million, or EUR1.95 per share, in the same
period last year.
In August, Standard & Poor's Ratings Services affirmed its 'B+'
corporate credit ratings on BCP Caylux Holdings Luxembourg
S.C.A. and its Frankfurt, Germany-based Celanese AG subsidiary
and removed them from CreditWatch where they were placed with
negative implications on December 16, 2003. The outlook is
stable.
CONTACT: CELANESE AG
Frankfurter StraBe 111
61476 Kronberg im Taunus, Germany
Phone: +49 69 305 16000
Fax: +49 69 305 16006
Web site: http://www.celanese.com
GARANT SCHUH: Files for Insolvency
----------------------------------
German shoe retailer Garant Schuh AG has filed for insolvency on
failure to obtain cash to plug a financing gap, according to
Bloomberg News.
The company blamed Dutch Rabobank International, which was the
only hold out among the 19 banks that agreed to the terms of a
new financing. The consensus was pre-condition to the release
of the loan. Garant now plans to take up "restructuring
measures" that would enable it to continue trading while under
insolvency. The company is set to meet banks for further
discussions.
Garant Schuh provides centralized buying services to around
7,850 European stores.
CONTACT: GARANT SCHUH + MODE AG
ElisabethstraBe 70
D-40217 Dusseldorf
Phone: ++49/(0)211/3386-01
Fax: ++49/(0)211/3386-297
Web site: http://www.garantschuh.de
GRUBE MASCHINEN: Creditors Final Meeting October 13
---------------------------------------------------
The final meeting of the creditors of Grube Maschinen- und
Metallbau GmbH will be on October 13, 2004, 3:00 p.m. at the
district court of Stendal. The purpose of the meeting is to
examine the claims filed after the expiry of the filing period;
discuss objections to the final list of claims and the
insolvency administrator's final account; and decide on any
objects forming part of the assets involved in the insolvency
proceedings not apt for disposal.
The final report of the administrator, account, and list of
claims are available for viewing at the district court of
Stendal.
CONTACT: GRUBE MASCHINEN- UND METALLBAU GMBH
vertreten durch Jorg Grube
Rathenower StraBe 6, 39639 Havelberg
GULDE KUCHEN: Court Appoints Insolvency Administrator
-----------------------------------------------------
The district court of Amtsgericht opened bankruptcy proceedings
against Gulde Kuchen GmbH + Co. KG on August 19. Consequently,
all pending proceedings against the company have been
automatically stayed. Creditors have until October 1, 2004 to
register their claims with court-appointed provisional
administrator Dr. Thomas Leicht.
Creditors and other interested parties are encouraged to attend
the meeting on October 21, 2004 at AG Stuttgart, Hauffstr. 5,
EG, Saal 4 at which time the administrator will present his
first report of the insolvency proceedings. The court will
also verify the claims set out in the administrator's report
during this meeting, while creditors may constitute a creditors
committee and or opt to appoint a new insolvency manager.
CONTACT: Dr. Thomas Leicht, Insolvency Administrator
Eugenstr. 16, 70182 Stuttgart
Phone: 0711/245252
Fax: 0711/233586
JB TECHNIK: Deadline for Filing of Claims September 24
------------------------------------------------------
The district court of Muhlhausen opened bankruptcy proceedings
against JB Technik GmbH on August 23. Consequently, all pending
proceedings against the company have been automatically stayed.
Creditors have until September 24 to register their claims with
court-appointed provisional administrator Ulrich Hauter.
Creditors are asked to declare to the administrator their
security interests in personal property or rights of the debtor.
Creditors and other interested parties are encouraged to attend
the meeting on October 25, 2004, 9:30 a.m. at the district court
of Muhlhausen at which time the administrator will present his
first report of the insolvency proceedings. The court will also
verify the claims set out in the administrator's report during
this meeting, while creditors may constitute a creditors
committee and or opt to appoint a new insolvency manager.
CONTACT: JB TECHNIK GMBH
Rolf Dieter Brandt & Joachim Jordan
Am Ohmberg 2-4, 37345
Bischoffe
Ulrich Hauter, Insolvency Administrator
Untermarkt 12, 99974 Muhlhausen
DISTRICT COURT OF MUHLHAUSEN
Untermarkt 17, Raum 35
MRP ERLEBNISGASTRONOMIE: Creditors' Claims Due September 30
-----------------------------------------------------------
The district court of Neu-Ulm opened bankruptcy proceedings
against MRP Erlebnisgastronomie GmbH on August 23.
Consequently, all pending proceedings against the company have
been automatically stayed. Creditors have until September 30,
2004 to register their claims with court-appointed provisional
administrator Dipl.-Kfm. Werner Schneider.
Creditors and other interested parties are encouraged to attend
the meeting on October 13, 2004 at the district court of Neu-Ulm
at which time the administrator will present his first report of
the insolvency proceedings. The court will also verify the
claims set out in the administrator's report during this
meeting, while creditors may constitute a creditors committee
and or opt to appoint a new insolvency manager.
CONTACT: MRP ERLEBNISGASTRONOMIE GMBH
Erwin-Bosch-Ring 5 in 86381 Krumbach
Dipl.-Kfm. Werner Schneider, Insolvency Administrator
Bahnhofstr. 39, 89231 Neu-Ulm
Phone: 0731/97018-0
Fax: -65
DISTRICT COURT OF NEU-ULM
Heiner-Metzger-Platz 1, II. Stock, SS. 211
TANA INFORMATIONSSYSTEME: Claims Deadline Expires Next Week
-----------------------------------------------------------
The Neustadt/Wstr. district insolvency court has opened
bankruptcy proceedings against TANA Informationssysteme
Vertriebs-GmbH. Consequently, all pending proceedings against
the company have been automatically stayed. Creditors have
until September 19, 2004 to register their claims with
court-appointed provisional administrator Peter Depre.
Creditors and other interested parties are encouraged to attend
the meeting on September 17, 2004, 11:30 a.m. at C 9,
Seitengebaude, Robert-Stolz-Str. 20, 67433 Neustadt a. d. Wstr
at which time the administrator will present his first report of
the insolvency proceedings. The court will also verify the
claims set out in the administrator's report during this
meeting, while creditors may constitute a creditors committee
and or opt to appoint a new insolvency manager.
CONTACT: TANA INFORMATIONSSYSTEME VERTRIEBS-GMBH
GF Bernhard Tanner
Bruchstr. 54a, 67098 Bad Durkheim
Peter Depre, Insolvency Manager
O 4, 13-16, D-68161 Mannheim
Phone: 0621/12078-0
Fax: 0621/153800
VERWALTUNGSGESELLSCHAFT SPORTHOTEL: Creditors to Meet October 12
----------------------------------------------------------------
Creditors of Verwaltungsgesellschaft Sporthotel Glinde GmbH will
meet on October 12, 2004, 10:50 a.m. at the district court of
Reinbek to discuss the possible discontinuation of the company's
bankruptcy proceedings. The firm's insolvency manager declared
on August 5 that the assets involved are insufficient to cover
the costs of the proceedings.
The meeting will also examine the claims filed after the expiry
of the filing period and discuss objections to the final list,
and the insolvency administrator's final account.
CONTACT: VERWALTUNGSGESELLSCHAFT SPORTHOTEL GLINDE GMBH
GF Joachim Rath
Am Sportplatz 98, 21509 Glinde
DISTRICT COURT OF REINBEK
Saal 102 Parkallee 6
=============
I R E L A N D
=============
ABBEY THEATRE: Axing 30 to Offset EUR500,000 Cash Shortfall
-----------------------------------------------------------
Workers at Abbey Theatre in Dublin have rejected plans to reduce
the company's workforce by a third, as part of its rescue plan,
local reports say.
Members of SIPTU want the company to withdraw the plan and
negotiate a new one in partnership with the workers. They are
seeking an urgent meeting with Minister for Arts John
O'Donoghue.
Thirty of the company's 90 workers have been lined up for axing
to mitigate the funding crisis at the national theater.
Business World pegs the company's cash shortfall at EUR500,000.
Already, the theatre has postponed two shows previously included
in its centenary year program.
The cuts are expected to come from the literary department,
insiders told the Irish Times in a separate report. They may
also affect the outreach and education services, and production
teams at the Abbey and its sister theatre, the Peacock.
CONTACT: ABBEY AND PEACOCK THEATRES
26 Lower Abbey Street
Dublin 1
Ireland
For Lo-Call Information phone: 1890 444 100
Admin: 00 353 1 887 2200
Fax: 00 353 1 872 9177
Web site: http://www.abbeytheatre.ie
ELAN CORPORATION: Invited to Present at Bear Stearns Conference
---------------------------------------------------------------
Elan Corporation, plc will present at the Bear Stearns 17th
Annual Healthcare Conference in New York on Monday, September
13, at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time, 1:30 p.m. British Summer Time.
Interested parties may access a live audio Web cast of the
presentation by visiting http://www.elan.comand clicking on the
Investor Relations section, then on the event icon.
About Elan
Elan is a neuroscience-based biotechnology company that is
focused on discovering, developing, manufacturing, selling and
marketing advanced therapies in neurodegenerative diseases,
autoimmune diseases and severe pain. Elan's (NYSE: ELN) shares
trade on the New York, London and Dublin Stock Exchanges.
CONTACT: ELAN CORPORATION
Anita Kawatra
Phone: +1-212 407 5755
+1-800 252 3526
Investors
Emer Reynolds
Phone: +353 1 709 4000
Fax: +1-800 252 3526
Web site: http://www.elan.com
=========
I T A L Y
=========
ALITALIA SPA: CEO Has Less than a Week to Get Workers' Nod
----------------------------------------------------------
Alitalia CEO Giancarlo Cimoli met with unions Monday to persuade
workers to agree to the restructuring plan, International Herald
Tribune says.
The chief executive is proposing to cut around 5,000 jobs and
split the ailing carrier into two different units. These
job-cuts, according to him, will help save around EUR315 million
in two years and return the airline to profitability.
Alitalia needs the unions' approval before September 15 to avail
of a EUR400 million government-backed bridging loan. A no-deal
could force Alitalia into bankruptcy by October, as the
cash-strapped carrier needs the fund to continue its operation.
Alitalia would then be placed into extraordinary administration,
or worse, liquidation. The loan, which would be provided by
banks, would be for six months and is renewable for another six
months. In that period, Alitalia must implement its
restructuring plan and seek fresh funds through a capital
increase.
The European Union, which sanctioned the loan a few weeks ago,
also wants the Italian government to lower its stake in Alitalia
from 62% to less than 50%. E.U. transport commissioner, Loyola
de Palacio, says the job cuts were unavoidable.
Unions, however, want to limit the cuts that Mr. Cimoli is
proposing. CUB, which has around 700 Alitalia members, plans to
stage a "rotating hunger strike" in which four employees would
not eat for a day and another four the following day. CUB
national coordinator Pierpaolo Leonardi said their members might
also block the runways at Rome's Fiumicino Airport, as part of
their protest.
"It is clear that a restructuring is necessary, but not like
what the company is proposing. The cost of labor is not the
problem. The problem is inept management and therefore we are
calling for the government, Alitalia's biggest shareholder, to
step in and get involved," Mr. Leonardi told the Tribune.
Explaining CBU's decision to stop negotiating with Alitalia's
management, Mr. Leonardi says his union wants no part in a
social massacre.
The carrier's biggest unions, however, are still hoping they
could strike a deal with Mr. Cimoli. More moderate unions such
as CGIL said they would keep negotiating to get a compromise.
Like CBU, CGIL is also asking the Italian government to
intervene; but unlike the other union, it will not stage any
industrial action.
In April and May, a series of strikes led to cancellation of
around 1,250 flights.
CONTACT: ALITALIA S.p.A.
Viale A. Marchetti 111
00148 Rome, Italy
Phone: +39 06 6562 2151
Fax: +39 06 6562 4733
Web site: http://www.alitalia.it
PARMALAT U.S.A.: Wants to Employ Mahoney Cohen as Accountants
-------------------------------------------------------------
Parmalat U.S.A. Corporation and its U.S. debtor-affiliates are
asking the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of
New York for permission to employ Mahoney Cohen & Company, CPA,
P.C., as their accountants, nunc pro tunc to July 26, 2004.
Mahoney will:
-- provide tax compliance services, consisting of preparation
of 2003 and 2004 federal, state and local corporate tax
returns, tax-consulting services;
-- represent the U.S. Debtors before various taxing
authorities;
-- perform an audit of the Debtors' financial statements for
the year ended December 31, 2004, and, if needed, the year
ended December 31, 2003; and
-- perform any other services that it deems necessary in its
role as accountants to the Debtors or that may be
requested by the Debtors or their professionals.
The U.S. Debtors believe that Mahoney is well qualified and able
to represent them in a cost-effective, efficient and timely
manner. Since July 26, 2004, Mahoney has provided substantial
work for the Debtors, including an analysis of net operating
losses, an analysis of the tax consequences of various
prepetition transactions, and tax compliance work. Mahoney has
also worked with various government agencies, including the
Internal Revenue Service -- which is currently conducting an
audit of the Debtors -- the State of New York, and the State of
New Jersey to represent the Debtors' interests.
Mahoney is a middle market certified public accounting and
management consulting firm in the New York metropolitan area
that has been ranked among the top 35 CPA firms nationally.
Mahoney promotes its audit services as rigorous and thorough,
with stringent quality controls that conform to generally
accepted auditing standards. The firm's audit methodology
analyzes a company's business within the context it its
industry, providing a value-added service, looking for areas
where savings can be realized, cost controls can be introduced
and unforeseen business opportunities may exist. Mahoney also
provides a wide range of tax compliance and planning solutions
to businesses, trusts, private foundations and individuals,
ensuring compliance requirements are fulfilled while every
opportunity to minimize tax liabilities is explored.
Steven E. Golden, a partner and director of Bankruptcy Taxation
at Mahoney, will lead the Mahoney team assigned to the U.S.
Debtors. Mr. Golden is a certified public accountant and a
licensed attorney with extensive experience working with
insolvent businesses ranging in size from small, privately held
companies to large, publicly traded corporations throughout the
United States.
Before joining Mahoney, Mr. Golden was a tax partner and
director of Bankruptcy Taxation at BDO Seidman, LLP. He has
worked closely with bankruptcy attorneys and trustees on various
issues relating to the liquidation or reorganization of bankrupt
companies, including the cases of Starter Corporation,
Loehmanns, Inc., Artha Management, Sasson Jeans and Cuyahoga.
Mr. Golden has also been called upon to provide expert testimony
in numerous matters, including Celotex's bankruptcy litigation.
Mr. Golden is a published author and noted speaker.
The U.S. Debtors will compensate Mahoney for its services in
accordance with the firm's normal hourly rates:
Professional Hourly Rate
------------ -----------
Shareholders and directors $365 - 435
Managers and senior managers 210 - 280
Senior accountants and staff 115 - 205
The Debtors will also reimburse the firm for all reasonable and
necessary out-of-pocket expenses.
Mahoney has agreed to cap the fees for the tax compliance
services relating to the year ended December 31, 2003 at
US$45,000.
Mr. Golden assures the Court that Mahoney is a "disinterested
person" within the meaning of Section 101(14) of the Bankruptcy
Code and as required by Section 327(a). The firm holds no
interest adverse to the U.S. Debtors and their estates. The
firm has no connection to the Debtors, their significant
creditors or to certain other parties-in-interest.
Headquartered in Wallington, New Jersey, Parmalat U.S.A.
Corporation -- http://www.parmalatusa.com/-- generates more
than EUR7 billion in annual revenue. The Parmalat Group's
40-some brand product line includes milk, yogurt, cheese,
butter, cakes and cookies, breads, pizza, snack foods and
vegetable sauces, soups and juices. The company employs over
36,000 workers in 139 plants located in 31 countries on six
continents. It filed for chapter 11 protection on February 24,
2004 (Bankr. S.D.N.Y. Case No. 04-11139). Gary Holtzer, Esq.,
and Marcia L. Goldstein, Esq., of Weil Gotshal & Manges LLP,
represent the Debtors in their restructuring efforts. On June
30, 2003, the Debtors listed EUR2,001,818,912 in assets and
EUR1,061,786,417 in debts. (Parmalat Bankruptcy News, Issue No.
29; Bankruptcy Creditors' Service, Inc., 215/945-7000)
CONTACT: PARMALAT USA CORPORATION
520 Main Ave.
Wallington, NJ 07057
Phone: 973 777 2500
Fax: 973 777 7648
Toll Free: 888 727 6252
Web site: http://www.parmalatusa.com
SEAT PG: First-half EBITDA Slightly Up
--------------------------------------
First-half Financial Highlights
(a) EBITDA increased to EUR207.3 million (+1.1% in pro-forma
accounts for h1 2003), with a 37% ratio to revenues (35.8%
in pro-forma h1 2003).
(b) Cash generation increased to EUR300.5 million (EUR223.5
million in pro-forma accounts at June 30, 2003), thus
improving significantly, with a 53.7% ratio to revenues
(39.1% in pro-forma accounts for h1 2003).
SEAT Pagine Gialle S.p.A. was incorporated on August 1, 2003 as
a result of the partial proportional spin-off of former SEAT
Pagine Gialle S.p.A. (renamed Telecom Italia Media S.p.A.) of
the Directories business area (operating in the telephone
directories sector, selling advertising and publishing print and
online products), the Directory Assistance business area (that
supplies voice information services), and the Business
Information area (that supplies one-to-one marketing services,
marketing intelligence and database management services to
companies).
On December 23, 2003 the merger of SEAT S.p.A. into Silver
S.p.A. -- a company wholly held by Spyglass S.p.A. -- and of the
resulting company into Spyglass S.p.A. became effective.
Following the completion of this transaction, Spyglass S.p.A.
was renamed SEAT Pagine Gialle S.p.A.
In order to make the economic and financial figures of the SEAT
Pagine Gialle Group easier to understand, the statutory and
consolidated pro forma figures for the first half of 2003, the
pro forma net invested capital and the pro forma net financial
position at June 30, 2003, have been reconstructed as if the
spin-off of SEAT Pagine Gialle S.p.A. from Telecom Italia Media
S.p.A. (carried out on August 1, 2003) had been effective as of
January 1, 2003. These pro-forma figures are therefore posted
based on the 2003 consolidation area, which includes the figures
of the Business Information companies transferred in 2004.
The merger by incorporation that took place at the end of 2003,
of SEAT S.p.A. in Silver S.p.A. and the resulting Company in
Spyglass S.p.A. did not produce effects on revenues and
operating cost items, or on operating working capital. Thus, it
was not deemed essential to state the effects of these
transactions in the pro forma income statement for H1 2003 and
FY 2003.
Compared to first half 2003 pro-forma accounts, the
consolidation area was reduced as the French Group Consodata,
Consodata Germany GmbH and the U.S. company NetCreations Inc.
were sold during the six-month period.
* * *
In April, Standard & Poor's Ratings Services assigned its 'BB-'
long-term corporate credit rating to the Italy-based classified
directory publisher SEAT Pagine Gialle S.p.A. The outlook is
negative.
At the same time, Standard & Poor's assigned its 'B' long-term
rating to SEAT's proposed EUR1.15 billion (US$1.38 billion)
ten-year senior notes. The notes will be issued by
Luxembourg-based Lighthouse International Co. S.A. and
guaranteed on a subordinated basis (behind secured loans) by
SEAT. The 'B' long-term rating is two notches below the
corporate credit rating to reflect the subordinated position of
the notes behind the group's EUR2.75 billion senior secured term
loan facility,
EUR150 million revolving credit facility, and proposed EUR150
million second lien loan note issue.
CONTACT: SEAT Pagine Gialle S.p.A.
Via A. Saffi
18 -10138 Torino
Phone: +39 011 435 1
Web site: http://www.seat.it
Investor Relations Office
Phone: +39.011.435.26.00
Press Office
Phone: +39.011.435.30.30
Fax: +39.011.435.30.40
E-mail: comunicazione.stampa@SEAT.it
=====================
N E T H E R L A N D S
=====================
NUMICO N.V.: Wraps up Buyout of Finnish Baby Food Brands
--------------------------------------------------------
Royal Numico N.V. completed the acquisition of the leading
Finnish baby food brands 'Tutteli' and 'Muksu' from Valio Group,
for EUR57 million in cash.
'Tutteli' and 'Muksu' are leading baby food brands in Finland.
Tutteli is the leading brand in the infant milk formula category
primarily consisting of liquid formulas, whereas Muksu is a
leading cereals brand. These two brands represent approximately
EUR20 million in net sales and an operating income of
approximately EUR5 million. The two brands and related financial
results will be consolidated as of 8 September 2004.
This add-on acquisition represents an excellent fit with
Numico's overall strategic objective.
The two acquired brands, coupled with Numico's leading position
in the Finnish baby food specialities category, offer market
leading positions and significant growth potential in a
relatively underdeveloped market.
Royal Numico is a specialized nutrition company with leading
positions in Baby Food and Clinical Nutrition. The company
operates in over 100 countries and employs approximately 10,500
people (http://www.numico.com).
CONTACT: ROYAL NUMICO N.V.
Corporate Communications
Phone: +31 79 353 9931
Investor Relations
Phone: +31 79 353 9003
ROYAL SHELL: Athabasca Project Sets Production Record
-----------------------------------------------------
Shell Canada Limited said the Athabasca Oil Sands Project
achieved record monthly production in August averaging 182,000
barrels per day of bitumen. After just more than one year of
operations, the project has demonstrated its ability to meet and
exceed the design rate of 155,000 barrels per day of bitumen on
a sustained basis.
"We ran full throttle in August, setting daily, weekly and now
monthly production records," said Neil Camarta, Shell Canada's
Senior Vice President Oil Sands. "I am very proud of the many
people who have worked so hard over the past year to bring us to
this level. We have focused on continuous improvement in
production on a safe and sustained basis -- and it's paying
out."
August results will offset the lower production in July of
121,000 barrels per day related to unscheduled maintenance work
on one of the froth treatment plant settlers. Follow-up
maintenance work on the other two settlers is planned for
October and will reduce production by approximately 50% for up
to two weeks.
The Athabasca Oil Sands Project consists of the Muskeg River
Mine located north of Fort McMurray, Alberta and the Scotford
Upgrader located near Edmonton.
A joint venture among Shell Canada Limited (60%), Chevron Canada
Limited (20%) and Western Oil Sands L.P. (20%), the Athabasca
Oil Sands Project is Alberta's first new oil sands mining
project in 25 years and can supply 10 per cent of Canada's oil
needs.
CONTACT: ROYAL DUTCH/SHELL GROUP OF COMPANIES
Carel van Bylandtlaan 30
2596 HR The Hague, The Netherlands
Phone: +31 70 377 9111
Fax: +31 70 377 3115
Web site: http://www.shell.com
ROYAL SHELL: Sells Belgian Interests to Tractebel
-------------------------------------------------
Belgian Shell has agreed to the sale of its 16.67% interest in
each Distrigas S.A., the Belgian gas wholesale company, and
Fluxys S.A., the Belgian gas transmission company to
Suez-Tractebel, the utility group. Preemption rights of
eligible co-shareholders need to be observed before the
agreement can be effected.
The agreement is the result of commercial discussions that had
been initiated several months ago. It is in line with Shell's
portfolio management strategy to maximize shareholder value.
The prices agreed for the transaction are EUR1648/share for the
shares held in Distrigas and EUR1600/share for the shares held
in Fluxys, in line with share price levels in the recent past.
The overall value of the transaction amounts to approximately
EUR380.4 Million.
CONTACT: ROYAL DUTCH/SHELL GROUP OF COMPANIES
Carel van Bylandtlaan 30
2596 HR The Hague, The Netherlands
Phone: +31 70 377 9111
Fax: +31 70 377 3115
Web site: http://www.shell.com
===========
N O R W A Y
===========
AKER KVAERNER: Wins GBP35 Mln Contract from U.K.'s Total
--------------------------------------------------------
Total E&P U.K. plc awarded Aker Kvaerner a new contract worth
approximately GBP35 million. The Aberdeen-based Aker Kvaerner
Offshore Partner Limited will be responsible for supporting
operations and maintenance at Total's St. Fergus gas terminal
and on the Elgin/Franklin offshore assets in the North Sea.
Aker Kvaerner Offshore Partner Ltd (AKOPL) is the existing
contractor on Elgin/Franklin and will now, in addition, be
taking over the responsibility for provision of services at St
Fergus terminal as part of the same. Approval by Total's
co-venturers for the arrangements has been sought. The new
assignment is valued at approximately GBP6-7 million per year
for the next 5 years.
The work will involve the voluntary transfer of a number of
personnel from both Total staff and from the incumbent St Fergus
contractor to the AKOPL workforce.
Aker Kvaerner Offshore Partner's Managing Director, Harald
Gulaker said the award of this new contract was a significant
acknowledgement of the Company's track record: "We have a good
reputation for our expertise and experience in the area of
maintenance and operations and we are delighted to have been
successful in this extremely rigorous selection process. We
look forward to working in partnership with Total, to build on
our performance and safely meet their business challenges."
Total E&P U.K. plc Managing Director, Michel Contie said: "I am
confident that this new contract with the right contractors will
create the framework for a more dynamic, sustainable future for
our U.K. operations."
The St Fergus gas terminal receives and processes up to 20% of
the U.K.'s natural gas requirements from 20 offshore fields,
while the Elgin/Franklin fields produce around 5% of the U.K.'s
gas consumption.
The new contract will become operational in January 2005 and run
until 2010.
AKER KVAERNER ASA, through its subsidiaries and affiliates, is a
leading global provider of engineering and construction
services, technology products and integrated solutions. The
business within Aker Kvaerner span a number of industries,
including Oil & Gas production, Refining & Chemicals, Mining &
Metals, Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology, Power Generation and
Pulp & Paper. Aker Kvaerner has aggregated annual revenues of
approximately US$4.5 billion and employs around 21,000 employees
in more than 30 countries. The Aker Kvaerner group consists of
a number of separate legal entities. Aker Kvaerner is used as
the common brand/trademark for most of these entities. The
parent company in the group is Aker Kvaerner A.S.A.
MMO Europe (Maintenance, Modifications and Operations) is the
business area responsible for the Aker Kvaerner's MMO
competencies and capacities, serving the Norwegian and U.K.
Continental Shelf, and supporting selected international
initiatives. The core competencies are turn-key deliveries
offshore modifications, long term on- and offshore modification
and maintenance contracts, inspection, operation and operations
support, offshore removal and de-construction and subsurface
advisory.
Aker Kvaerner Offshore Partner Ltd (AKOPL) is a business unit
within the MMO business area and a leading provider of
world-class solutions in total "life-of-field" support services
to the oil and gas industry. AKOPL's engineering and design
capability extends from front-end consultancy through operations
and maintenance support, to decommissioning and removal. AKOPL
offers extensive experience of value-added solutions that have
produced significant cost savings, faster project delivery and
greater long-term value to our customers.
* * *
In April, Fitch Ratings assigned a rating of 'BB' to the Aker
Kvaerner AS EUR260 million second priority lien notes issue
guaranteed by Aker Kvaerner O&G Group AS (AK O&G). This follows
a review of final documentation on the basis of which Fitch
confirms the expected rating assigned to these notes on March
12, 2004. The agency's Senior Unsecured rating for AK O&G is
'BB' with a Stable Outlook.
The 'BB' rating assigned to the notes, at the same level as the
Senior Unsecured rating, reflects the agency's view of the
potential recovery prospects of the notes, based on the pro-
forma capital structure of the group. Although the notes are
contractually subordinated to a EUR150 million senior secured
credit facility, and contractually and structurally subordinated
to a EUR6.8 million (NOK57 million) project financing loan and
bonding facilities in excess of EUR400 million (NOK3 billion),
the value within the business should ensure substantial recovery
for the note holders.
The notes mature on June 15, 2011 and will accrue interest at a
rate of 8.375% per annum. The issuer may redeem some or all of
the notes from June 15, 2007. This three-year non-call period
is shorter than the average that Fitch has typically seen in the
market. Subject to covenants being met, the notes are subject
to a EUR160 million carve-out for additional indebtedness.
Current ratings do not assume a need for additional
indebtedness.
The net proceeds from the issue of the notes will be held in an
escrow account until the new EUR150 million senior secured
credit facility is fully in place and bonding facilities have
been amended. This is partly conditional upon the completion of
the initial public offering of shares by Aker Kvaerner ASA, the
new holding company of AK O&G and the Kvaerner Group's
engineering and construction businesses. Once all conditions
have been fulfilled, proceeds from the notes will be used to
repay certain inter-company indebtedness owed to companies
outside of AK O&G.
CONTACT: AKER KVAERNER
Media:
Lasse Torkildsen
Vice President, Group Comms.
Phone: +47 67 51 30 39
===========
P O L A N D
===========
ELEKTRIM SA: EBRD Defers Decision on EUR75 Million Loan
-------------------------------------------------------
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has
again moved its schedule for approving the EUR75 million loan
requested by Warsaw-based telecom and power group Elektrim,
Interfax-Europe reports. The bank said it might consider and
approve the loan on October 5, some months after its previously
planned September 6 and July 6 ruling.
The approval is necessary for the release of another EUR300
million loan to Elektrim from a six-bank consortium. Both
funding are intended to help Elektrim finish building the Patnow
II power block. Elektrim promised to invest in the upgrade of
the plant when it bought PAK, which includes the Patnow power
plant and two others, in 1999. It agreed to invest a total of
US$1 billion in the three PAK power plants.
Elektrim spokeswoman Ewa Bojar four months ago warned delays in
the release of the EUR75 million funding could delay
construction works, threatening the entire project, and forcing
Elektrim to miss the July 2006 deadline set by the Treasury for
its completion. Ms. Bojar said in April construction work must
start early in July for the firm to meet the deadline.
"The delay is significant but we don't want to comment on the
EBRD's decision. The main difficulty in credits for PAK is the
question of long-term energy contracts, which are very large
barrier in organizing financing, as the banks don't know how the
plants will sell the electric power," she now said. The company
is still hoping it will meet the deadline.
Work in the plant was suspended in May 2003 due to lack of
funding and a disagreement with the Treasury over building
deadlines. In October 2003, Elektrim and Poland's State
Treasury a deal to extend to July 1, 2006 the deadline.
CONTACT: ELEKTRIM S.A.
Public Relations:
Ewa Bojar
Phone: (+48 22) 432 89 55
Fax: (+48 22) 432 87 99
E-mail: ewa_bojar@elektrim.pl
Investor Relations:
Phone: (+48 22) 432 87 75
Fax: (+48 22) 432 87 99
Web site: http://www.elektrim.pl
===========
R U S S I A
===========
KALUGA-AGRO-PROM-ENERGO: Names I. Smirnov Insolvency Manager
------------------------------------------------------------
The Arbitration Court of Kaluga region has commenced bankruptcy
supervision procedure on OJSC Kaluga-Agro-Prom-Energo (TIN
4027030056). The case is docketed as A23-1459/04B-17-56. Mr.
I. Smirnov has been appointed temporary insolvency manager.
Creditors may submit their proofs of claim to 248001, Russia,
Kaluga, Post User Box 308. A hearing will take place on January
10, 2005.
CONTACT: KALUGA-AGRO-PROM-ENERGO
Russia, Kaluga region,
3rd Tarutinsky Pr. 4
Mr. I. Smirnov
Temporary Insolvency Manager
248001, Russia,
Kaluga, Post User Box 308
KERAMIK: Court Sets October 26 Hearing
--------------------------------------
The Arbitration Court of Komi republic has commenced bankruptcy
supervision procedure on ceramic company LLC Keramik. The case
is docketed as A29-4118/04-3B. Mr. A. Gubarets has been
appointed temporary insolvency manager.
Creditors may submit their proofs of claim to 169300, Russia,
Komi republic, Ukhta, Lenina Pr. 61, Apartment 60. A hearing
will take place at Russia, Komi republic, Syktyvkar,
Ordzhonikidze Str. 49A on October 26, 2004, 10:00 a.m.
CONTACT: KERAMIK
169306, Russia,
Komi republic,
Dezhneva Str. 31
Mr. A. Gubarets
Temporary Insolvency Manager
169300, Russia,
Komi republic, Ukhta,
Lenina Pr. 61,
Apartment 60
KRASNOUFIMSKAYA GARMENT: Succumbs to Bankruptcy
-----------------------------------------------
The Arbitration Court of Sverdlovsk region has declared OJSC
Krasnoufimskaya Garment Factory insolvent and introduced
bankruptcy proceedings. The case is docketed as
A60-29118/2-3-S1. Mr. D. Kostromin has been appointed
insolvency manager.
Creditors have until September 19, 2004 to submit their proofs
of claim to 620027, Russia, Ekaterinburg, Post User Box 206.
CONTACT: KRASNOUFIMSKAYA GARMENT FACTORY
623300, Russia,
Sverdlovsk region, Krasnoufimsk,
Lesozavodskaya Str. 15
Mr. D. Kostromin
Insolvency Manager
620027, Russia,
Ekaterinburg, Post User Box 206
MALAKHOVSKOYE RING: Under Bankruptcy Supervision
------------------------------------------------
The Arbitration Court of Altay region has commenced bankruptcy
supervision procedure on OJSC Malakhovskoye Ring. The case is
docketed as A03-6543/04-B. Ms. L. Ostanina has been appointed
temporary insolvency manager. Creditors may submit their proofs
of claim to 656002, Russia, Altay region, Barnaul, Sovetskaya
Str. 14.
CONTACT: MALAKHOVSKOYE RING
656054, Russia,
Altay region, Barnaul,
Malakhova Str. 84
Ms. L. Ostanina
Temporary Insolvency Manager
656002, Russia,
Altay region, Barnaul,
Sovetskaya Str. 14
NARYSHKINSKOYE BREAD: Orel Court Appoints Insolvency Manager
------------------------------------------------------------
The Arbitration Court of Orel region has commenced bankruptcy
supervision procedure on OJSC Naryshkinskoye Bread Receiving
Enterprise. The case is docketed as A48-3207/04-37b. Mr. A.
Evseev has been appointed temporary insolvency manager.
Creditors may submit their proofs of claim to:
(a) The Arbitration Court of Orel region
Russia, Orel,
Saltykova-Shedrina Str. 22
(b) Naryshkinskoye Bread Receiving Enterprise
Russia, Orel region,
Naryshkino, Revkova Str. 28
(c) Temporary Insolvency Manager
302004, Russia,
Orel region, 3rd Kurskaya Str. 15
Phone/Fax: 75-59-89
A hearing will take place on September 24, 2004, 10:30 a.m.
NOVOKUZNETSKAYA GEOLOGIC-GEOPHYSICAL: Declared Insolvent
--------------------------------------------------------
The Arbitration Court of Kemerovo region has declared OJSC
Novokuznetskaya Geologic-Geophysical Expedition insolvent and
introduced bankruptcy proceedings. The case is docketed as
A27-121162/2003-4. Mr. M. Mokshin has been appointed insolvency
manager.
Creditors have until September 19, 2004 to submit their proofs
of claim to:
(a) Mr. M. Mokshin
Insolvency Manager
654005, Russia,
Kemerovo region, Novokuznetsk,
Ordzhonikidze Str. 13, Office 304
(b) Novokuznetskaya Geologic-Geophysical Expedition
Russia, Kemerovo region, Novokuznetsk
A hearing will take place at the Arbitration Court of Kemerovo
region on March 31, 2005, 1:30 p.m.
OLYMSKY SUGAR: Gives Creditors Until September 19 to File Claims
----------------------------------------------------------------
The Arbitration Court of Kursk region has declared OJSC Olymsky
Sugar Refinery insolvent and introduced bankruptcy proceedings.
The case is docketed as A35-313/02g. Mr. A. Fomin has been
appointed insolvency manager. Creditors have until September
19, 2004 to submit their proofs of claim to 107045, Russia,
Moscow, Sretensky Avenue, 5, Post User Box 161.
CONTACT: OLYMSKY SUGAR REFINERY
306716, Russia,
Kursk region,
Kastorensky region, Olymsky
Mr. A. Fomin
Insolvency Manager
107045, Russia,
Moscow, Sretensky Avenue, 5,
Post User Box 161
PENZA CITY-SOVIET: Undergoes External Management Procedure
----------------------------------------------------------
The Arbitration Court of Penza region has commenced external
management bankruptcy procedure on municipal unitary enterprise
Penza City-Soviet. The case is docketed as A49-5178/03-74b/10.
Mr. S. Konchurov has been appointed external insolvency manager.
CONTACT: PENZA CITY-SOVIET
Russia, Penza, Titova Str. 6B
PODOLSKY ELECTRO-MECHANICAL: Under Bankruptcy Supervision
---------------------------------------------------------
The Arbitration Court of Moscow region has commenced bankruptcy
supervision procedure on OJSC Podolsky Electro-Mechanical Plant.
The case is docketed as A41-K2-884/04. Mr. V. Ryabchenko has
been appointed temporary insolvency manager. Creditors may
submit their proofs of claim to 111250, Russia, Moscow,
Krasnokazarmennaya Str. 9.
CONTACT: PODOLSKY ELECTRO-MECHANICAL PLANT
142105, Russia,
Moscow region, Podolsk,
B. Serpukhovskaya Str. 43
Mr. V. Ryabchenko
Temporary Insolvency Manager
111250, Russia, Moscow,
Krasnokazarmennaya Str. 9
Phone/Fax: 258-93-20
PROMORSKY FISH: Bankruptcy Proceedings Begin
--------------------------------------------
The Arbitration Court of Saint-Petersburg and the Leningrad
region has declared OJSC Promorsky Fish Combine insolvent and
introduced bankruptcy proceedings. The case is docketed as
A56-2062/04. Ms. U. Durneva has been appointed insolvency
manager.
Creditors have until September 19, 2004 to submit their proofs
of claim to 191119, Russia, Saint-Petersburg, Post User Box 131.
CONTACT: PROMORSKY FISH COMBINE
188910, Russia,
Leningrad region, Vyborg region,
Primorsk, Gagarina Pr. 1
Ms. U. Durneva
Insolvency Manager
191119, Russia,
Saint-Petersburg,
Post User Box 131
ROS-MYAS-MOL-PROM: Court Sets September 23 Hearing
--------------------------------------------------
The Arbitration Court of Moscow region has commenced bankruptcy
supervision procedure on OJSC Ros-Myas-Mol-Prom
Development-Renewal-Equalizing of Meat and Dairy Industry. The
case is docketed as A40-17910/04-71-14B. Mr. A. Sergovsky has
been appointed temporary insolvency manager.
Creditors may submit their proofs of claim to 101000, Russia,
Moscow, Lubyansky Per. 5, building 1. A hearing will take place
on September 23, 2004, 2:30 p.m.
CONTACT: ROS-MYAS-MOL-PROM DEVELOPMENT-RENEWAL-EQUALIZING OF
MEAT AND DAIRY INDUSTRY
Russia, Moscow, SSPost-4,
Seleznyevskaya Str. 11A
Mr. A. Sergovsky
Temporary Insolvency Manager
101000, Russia, Moscow,
Lubyansky Per. 5, Building 1
SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH: Under Bankruptcy Supervision
-------------------------------------------------
The Arbitration Court of Penza region has commenced bankruptcy
supervision procedure on OJSC Scientific Research Institute Of
Computer Facilities. The case is docketed as
A49-2791/04-61b/20. Mr. E. Kallistov has been appointed
temporary insolvency manager.
Creditors may submit their proofs of claim to 440026, Russia,
Penza, Lermontova Str. 3. A hearing will take place at the
Arbitration Court of Penza region on November 18, 2004, 10:00
a.m.
CONTACT: SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH INSTITUTE OF COMPUTER FACILITIES
440026, Russia,
Penza, Lermontova Str. 3
Phone: 841-2-552047
Fax: 841-2-551903
Mr. E. Kallistov
Temporary Insolvency Manager
440026, Russia,
Penza, Lermontova Str. 3
Phone: 841-2-552047
Fax: 841-2-551903
The Arbitration Court of Penza region
440600, Russia,
Penza, GSP,
Belinskogo Str. 2
TERRA-TECHNOLOGY: Deadline for Filing of Claims September 19
------------------------------------------------------------
The Arbitration Court of Moscow region has declared CJSC
Terra-Technology (TIN 7710363467, OGRN 1027739174506) insolvent
and introduced bankruptcy proceedings. The case is docketed as
A40-56666/03-124-39B. Ms. E. Fedorova has been appointed
insolvency manager. Creditors have until September 19, 2004 to
submit their proofs of claim to 125009, Russia, Moscow.
CONTACT: TERRA-TECHNOLOGY
123056, Russia,
Moscow, B. Gruzinskaya Str. 60,
Building 1
Ms. E. Fedorova
Insolvency Manager
125009, Russia, Moscow
ULAN-UDENSKY: Gives Creditors Until September 19 to File Claims
----------------------------------------------------------------
The Arbitration Court of Buryatiya republic has declared
municipal unitary enterprise Ulan-Udensky Hothouse Combine
insolvent and introduced bankruptcy proceedings. The case is
docketed as A10-8225/01. Ms. D. Badmazhapova has been appointed
insolvency manager. Creditors have until September 19, 2004 to
submit their proofs of claim to 670013, Russia, Buryatiya
republic, Ulan-Ude, Klyuchevskaya Str. 26, Apartment 36.
CONTACT: Ms. D. Badmazhapova
Insolvency Manager
670013, Russia,
Buryatiya republic, Ulan-Ude,
Klyuchevskaya Str. 26, Apartment 36
ULYANOVSKOYE TRADE: Insolvency Manager Takes over Helm
------------------------------------------------------
The Arbitration Court of Ulyanovsk region has declared OJSC
Ulyanovskoye Trade Leather-Shoe Corporation insolvent and
introduced bankruptcy proceedings. The case is docketed as
A72-1002/03-G15-B. Mr. Y. Starchenko has been appointed
insolvency manager. Creditors have until September 19, 2004 to
submit their proofs of claim to 433513, Russia, Ulyanovsk
region, Dimitrovograd, Post User Box 963.
CONTACT: ULYANOVSKOYE TRADE LEATHER-SHOE CORPORATION
453300, Russia,
Ulyanovsk, Gaya Pr. 69
Mr. Y. Starchenko
Insolvency Manager
433513, Russia,
Ulyanovsk region,
Dimitrovograd, Post User Box 963
YUGO-KAMSKY: Perm Court Opens Bankruptcy Proceedings
----------------------------------------------------
The Arbitration Court of Perm region has declared OJSC
Yugo-Kamsky Engineering Plant in Name of Lepse insolvent and
introduced bankruptcy proceedings. The case is docketed as
A50-1215/2004-B. Ms. L. Syrvacheva has been appointed
insolvency manager.
Creditors have until September 19, 2004 to submit their proofs
of claim to:
(a) Yugo-Kamsky Engineering Plant in Name of Lepse
614526, Russia,
Perm region, Perm region,
Yugo-Kamsky, Kirova Str. 1
(b) Ms. L. Syrvacheva, insolvency manager
614068, Russia,
Perm, Bolshevistskaya Str. 163
Phone: (3422) 16-39-33, 36-68-46.
(c) The Arbitration Court of Perm region
614990, Russia,
Perm, Lunacharskogo Str. 3
YUKOS OIL: Second-quarter, First-half Oil Production Up
-------------------------------------------------------
Yukos Oil Company released Tuesday its preliminary consolidated
operating results for the second quarter and first six months of
2004.
Second Quarter 2004 vs. Second Quarter 2003
Yukos' production was 21.3 million metric tons (156 million
barrels) of crude oil and gas condensate, including 0.4 million
metric tons (3.2 million barrels) of Yukos' interest in
production of equity affiliates in the second quarter of 2004,
which is 8.0% more than in the corresponding period of 2003.
Refinery throughput increased by 7.7% in the second quarter of
2004 to 9.6 million metric tons (70 million barrels).
Gas production increased by 28.9% from 1.15 billion cubic meters
(40.7 billion cubic feet) in the second quarter of 2003 to 1.49
billion cubic meters (52.5 billion cubic feet) in the second
quarter of 2004, including 0.45 billion cubic meters (15.9
billion cubic feet) of YUKOS' interest in production of equity
affiliates.
In the second quarter of 2004 international sales of crude oil
were 11.8 million metric tons (86 million barrels), an increase
of 3.1% over the corresponding period of 2003. Excluded from
the international sales of crude oil were 1.5 million metric
tons (11 million barrels) of inter-company sales of crude oil to
Mazeikiu Nafta as well as other inter-company sales in the
second quarter of 2004. International sales of petroleum
products were at a level of 4.6 million metric tons (35 million
barrels) in the second quarter of 2004, which is 9.7% higher
than in the second quarter of 2003. Sales of petroleum products
on the Russian domestic market in the second quarter of 2004
were 4.1 million metric tons (32 million barrels), which is 6.1%
lower than in the corresponding period of 2003.
In the second quarter of 2004 exports of crude oil outside the
territory of the Russian Federation including sales to Mazeikiu
Nafta were 13.3 million metric tons (97 million barrels), an
increase of 7.5% over the second quarter of 2003. Exports of
petroleum products outside the territory of the Russian
Federation were 3.0 million metric tons (21 million barrels) in
the second quarter of 2004, a decrease of 2.8% over the
corresponding period of 2003.
The light product yield at Company refineries, including
Mazeikiu Nafta, was 59.73% in the second quarter of 2004,
compared to 59.89% in the second quarter of 2003. Excluding
Mazeikiu Nafta, the light product yield was 58.65% in the second
quarter of 2004, compared to 58.10% in the second quarter of
2003.
Yukos drilled 227.5 thousand meters of production wells in the
second quarter of 2004, 27.5% less than in the second quarter of
2003 excluding Yukos' interest in equity affiliates. Placed on
stream in the second quarter of 2004 were 76 new wells compared
to 95 in the second quarter of 2003 excluding Yukos' interest in
equity affiliates.
First Six Months 2004 vs. First Six Months 2003
Yukos' production was 42.4 million metric tons (310 million
barrels) of crude oil and gas condensate, including 0.8 million
metric tons (6.1 million barrels) of Yukos' interest in
production of equity affiliates in the first six month of 2004,
which is 8.7% more than in the corresponding period of 2003.
Refinery throughput increased by 7.2% in the first six months of
2004 to 19.4 million metric tons (142 million barrels).
Gas production increased by 23.1% from 2.66 billion cubic meters
(93.9 billion cubic feet) in the first six months of 2003 to
3.27 billion cubic meters (115.6 billion cubic feet) in the
corresponding period of 2004, including 0.86 billion cubic
meters (30.5 billion cubic feet) of YUKOS' interest in
production of equity affiliates.
In the first six months of 2004 international sales of crude oil
were 23.6 million metric tons (173 million barrels), an increase
of 11.4% over the first six months of 2003. Excluded from the
international sales of crude oil were 3.5 million metric tons
(26 million barrels) of inter-company sales of crude oil to
Mazeikiu Nafta as well as other inter-company sales in the first
half of 2004. International sales of petroleum products were at
a level of 9.4 million metric tons (71 million barrels) in the
first six months of 2004, which is 17.2% higher than in the
corresponding period of 2003. Sales of petroleum products on
the Russian domestic market in the first six months of 2004 were
7.9 million metric tons (61 million barrels), which is 10.7%
lower than in the first six months of 2003.
In the first six months of 2004 exports of crude oil outside the
territory of the Russian Federation including sales to Mazeikiu
Nafta were 26.8 million metric tons (196 million barrels), an
increase of 13.3% over the first six months of 2003. Exports of
petroleum products outside the territory of the Russian
Federation were 5.8 million metric tons (42 million barrels) in
the first six months of 2004, an increase of 9.4% over the
corresponding period of 2003.
The light product yield at Company refineries, including
Mazeikiu Nafta, was 61.77% in the first six months of 2004,
compared to 60.30% in the corresponding period of 2003.
Excluding Mazeikiu Nafta, the light product yield was 58.76% in
the first six months of 2004, compared to 57.92% in the first
six months of 2003.
Yukos drilled 397.2 thousand meters of production wells in the
first six months of 2004, 26.1% less than in the corresponding
period of 2003 excluding Yukos' interest in equity affiliates.
Placed on stream in 1 half 2004 were 141 new wells compared to
168 in the first half of 2003 excluding Yukos' interest in
equity affiliates.
Table 1: YUKOS preliminary operational results for the second
quarter of 2004
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Three months Three months %
ended June 30 ended June 30 change
(mln. MT) (mln. bbl.*) 2Q04 to
2004 2003 2004 2003 2Q03*
Crude oil production,
Including
equity affiliates 21.3 19.7 155.7 144.2 8.0%
Yukos share in
crude oil production
of equity affiliates 0.4 0.2 3.2 1.4 134.3%
Refinery throughput 9.6 8.9 70.0 65.0 7.7%
Crude and oil
product sales 20.5 20.1 153.6 149.0 2.0%
International sales
of crude oil 11.8 11.4 86.0 83.4 3.1%
International sales
of oil products 4.6 4.2 35.0 30.3 9.7%
Domestic oil
product sales 4.1 4.4 32.1 34.3 -6.1%
Export of crude oil 13.3 12.3 96.9 90.2 7.5%
Export of oil products 3.0 3.1 21.2 21.4 -2.8%
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Table 2: YUKOS preliminary operational results for the first six
months of 2004
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Six months Six months %
ended June 30 ended June 30 change
(mln. MT) (mln. bbl.*) 1H04 to
2004 2003 2004 2003 1H03*
Crude oil production,
including
equity affiliates 42.4 39.0 310.0 285.3 8.7%
Yukos share in
crude oil production
of equity affiliates 0.8 0.2 6.1 1.7 258.8%
Refinery throughput 19.4 18.1 142.1 132.6 7.2%
Crude and oil
product sales 41.2 38.4 306.4 281.6 7.3%
International sales
of crude oil 23.6 21.2 172.7 155.1 11.4%
International sales
of oil products 9.4 8.0 71.1 58.4 17.2%
Domestic oil
product sales 7.9 8.9 61.1 66.5 -10.7%
Export of crude oil 26.8 23.6 195.9 172.9 13.3%
Export of oil products 5.8 5.3 42.1 39.0 9.4%
* Percentage changes and volume data in barrels were calculated
from the volume data in metric tons before rounding. For
petroleum products approximate weighted average coefficients
were used, which can be different for domestic and international
sales as well as for different time periods.
** Exports of crude oil and petroleum products mean sales made
by YUKOS companies domiciled in Russia to foreign companies
(both external foreign companies and YUKOS companies domiciled
outside Russia) for use outside the territory of the Russian
Federation. International sales of crude oil and petroleum
products mean sales made by all YUKOS companies included in
YUKOS consolidated US GAAP financial statements to external
foreign companies for use outside the territory of the Russian
Federation. External foreign companies mean foreign companies,
which are not included in YUKOS consolidated U.S. GAAP financial
statements.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
All the information provided in the press release does not
include Sibneft data.
CONTACT: YUKOS OIL
Investor Relations
Alexander Gladyshev
Phone: +7 095 788 00 33
E-mail: investors@yukos.ru
Press Service
Alexander Shadrin
Phone: +7 095 785-08-55
E-mail: pr@yukos.ru
International Information Department
Hugo Erikssen
Phone: + 7 095 540-63-13
E-mail: inter@yukos.ru
YUKOS OIL: Hearing on Tax Cases to Continue Next Week
-----------------------------------------------------
The hearing of the tax evasion cases filed against Yukos
executives and the company's appeal on its back tax bill will
resume Tuesday.
The Meshchansky court of Moscow will continue hearing witnesses
for the prosecution in the tax evasion case against Yukos
executives on Tuesday, defense lawyer Genrikh Padva told
Itar-Tass. The previous hearing was adjourned after one of the
judges fell ill. Prosecutors have so far presented 13 of its
more than 100 witnesses since the beginning of the proceedings.
Defendants in the case are Yukos ex-CEO Mikhail Khodorkovsky,
Menatep CEO Platon Lebedev; and Andrei Krainov, former director
of the firm Volna. They are facing seven counts of charges,
including tax evasion and misappropriation of shares in the
acquisition of Apatit company in 1994. Prosecutors claim they
unlawfully acquired 20% of Apatit shares through Volna firm.
Mr. Krainov is being tried as accessory.
Meanwhile, the Moscow arbitration court also postponed the
hearing on Yukos' appeal until September 14, according to
Interfax. According to the court, it decided to postpone the
hearing at the tax ministry's request because it is currently
heavily occupied with other matters.
CONTACT: YUKOS OIL
Investor Relations
Alexander Gladyshev
Phone: +7 095 788 00 33
E-mail: investors@yukos.ru
Press Service
Alexander Shadrin
Phone: +7 095 785-08-55
E-mail: pr@yukos.ru
International Information Department
Hugo Erikssen
Phone: + 7 095 540-63-13
E-mail: inter@yukos.ru
YUKOS OIL: To Contest Order to Pay Tax Bill for 2001
----------------------------------------------------
Yukos Oil plans to appeal the decision of the Federal Tax
Service to collect payments for its tax debts.
Company spokesman Alexander Shadrin said the tax service has
started collecting RUB79.3 billion (US$2.7 billion) in back
taxes for 2001, according to The Moscow Times. In a statement,
Yukos said tax officials have decided to treat the payment
demand as a "no-contest claim."
The company's tax arrears for 2001 is RUB119.9 billion. Mr.
Shadrin said the US$2.7 billion is the actual claim for 2001,
while the rest are penalties. He said tax authorities need a
court ruling before it can collect penalties. The company vowed
to appeal. The tax service was not immediately available for
comment, according to the report.
Yukos' total tax bill for 2000 and 2001 is now US$6.1 billion.
Analysts expect the figure to reach more than US$10 billion.
They fear Yukos' key Siberian oil unit, Yuganskneftegaz might
even be sold to cover the debt.
CONTACT: YUKOS OIL
Investor Relations
Alexander Gladyshev
Phone: +7 095 788 00 33
E-mail: investors@yukos.ru
Press Service
Alexander Shadrin
Phone: +7 095 785-08-55
E-mail: pr@yukos.ru
International Information Department
Hugo Erikssen
Phone: + 7 095 540-63-13
E-mail: inter@yukos.ru
ZAP-SIB: Bankruptcy Case Pending in Tomsk Arbitration Court
-----------------------------------------------------------
The Arbitration Court of Tomsk region has declared LLC Zap-Sib
(TIN 7021034973) insolvent and introduced bankruptcy
proceedings. The case is docketed as A67-5848/04. Mr. A.
Miftakhov has been appointed insolvency manager.
Creditors may submit their proofs of claim to:
(a) Mr. A. Miftakhov
Insolvency Manager
634021, Russia,
Tomsk-21, Post User Box 1795
(b) The Arbitration Court of Tomsk region
634050, Russia,
Tomsk, Kirova Pr. 10
(c) Zap-Sib
634021, Russia,
Tomsk, Frunze Pr. 152
=============
U K R A I N E
=============
AGROZAPCHASTINA: Under Bankruptcy Supervision
---------------------------------------------
The Economic Court of Zaporizhya region has commenced bankruptcy
supervision procedure on LLC Agrozapchastina (code EDRPOU
24512012). The case is docketed as 19/115 (04). Arbitral
manager Mrs. N. Chursina (License Number AA 783018) has been
appointed temporary insolvency manager. The company holds
account number 26005210284001 at CB Privatbank, Zaporizhya
regional branch.
Creditors have until September 17, 2004 to submit their proofs
of claim to:
(a) AGROZAPCHASTINA
72315, Ukraine, Zaporizhya region,
Melitopol, B. Hmelnitskij Avenue 20, 215
(b) Mrs. N. Chursina
Temporary Insolvency Manager
Ukraine, Zaporizhya region,
Melitopol, Sirtsov Str. 40
(c) ECONOMIC COURT OF ZAPORIZHYA REGION
69001, Ukraine, Zaporizhya region,
Shaumyana Str. 4
CHERNIGIV' DRUZHBA: Court Orders Debt Moratorium
------------------------------------------------
The Economic Court of Chernigiv region commenced bankruptcy
supervision procedure on OJSC Chernigiv' Commercial House
Druzhba (code EDRPOU 01564420) on March 5, 2004 and ordered a
moratorium on satisfaction of creditors' claims. The case is
docketed as 5/85 B. Arbitral manager Mrs. Olena Mayevska
(License Number AA 487819 approved on April 30, 2003) has been
appointed temporary insolvency manager. The company holds
account number 26000301830452 at JSCB Prominvestbank, MFO
353456.
Creditors have until September 17, 2004 to submit their proofs
of claim to:
(a) CHERNIGIV' COMMERCIAL HOUSE DRUZHBA
14005, Ukraine, Chernigiv region,
Miru Avenue, 30
(b) Mrs. Olena Mayevska
Temporary Insolvency Manager
Ukraine, Kyiv region,
Brovari district, Kalita,
Shevchenko Str. 20/22
Phone: 8 (050) 443-93-21
(c) ECONOMIC COURT OF CHERNIGIV REGION
14000, Ukraine, Chernigiv region,
Miru Avenue, 20
DERAZHNYA' SUGAR: Public Auction of Assets Set September 16
-----------------------------------------------------------
The Branch of Agency of Bankruptcy Questions in Hmelnitskij
Region and the liquidator of OJSC Derazhnya' Sugar Plant will
auction the firm's properties on September 16, 2004, 10:00 a.m.
at 29000, Ukraine, Hmelnitskij, Teatralna Str. 10, assembly hall
premises of Agency of Bankruptcy Questions of Hmelnitskij
region.
The properties for sale are:
(a) Immovable property and a group of buildings and
constructions (10 units). Starting price is UAH881,880
(inclusive of VAT);
(b) Immovable property and a group of building and
constructions (112 units). Starting price is UAH630,570
(inclusive of VAT); and
(c) Movable property and a group of building and constructions
(1260 units). Starting price is UAH3184343 (inclusive of
VAT).
The properties are located at Ukraine, Hmelnitskij region,
Derazhnya, Zavodska Str. 5. To participate, bidders must
deposit an amount equivalent to 5% of the value of the property
being sold and pay a registration fee of UAH34 until September
15, 2004. The 5% deposit must be paid to account number
260057155 at JSPPB Aval, Hmelnitskij regional branch, MFO
315966, EDRPOU 25993539, while the registration fee must be paid
to account number 260087154 at JSPPB Aval, Hmelnitskij regional
branch, MFO 315966, EDRPOU 26334909.
Participants must submit competitive propositions on or before
September 15, 2004 at Ukraine, Hmelnitskij, Soborna Str. 42.
For more information, call 8 (03822) 70-22-09.
CONTACT: AUCTION COMMITTEE
Ukraine, Hmelnitskij region,
Soborna Str. 42
Phone: 8 (03822) 70-22-09
KRASNOPILSKE AUTO 15940: Court Appoints Insolvency Manager
----------------------------------------------------------
The Economic Court of Sumi region commenced bankruptcy
supervision procedure on OJSC Krasnopilske Auto Transport
Enterprise 15940 (code EDRPOU 00727239) on June 30, 2004.
Arbitral manager Mr. Andrij Sisoyev (License Number AA 485260
approved on April 9, 2003) has been appointed temporary
insolvency manager.
The company holds account number 26006310134 at OJSC State
savings bank of Ukraine, Lebedin branch, MFO 337665.
CONTACT: KRASNOPILSKE AUTO TRANSPORT ENTERPRISE 15940
Ukraine, Sumi region,
Krasnopillya, Mezenivska Str. 105
Mr. Andrij Sisoyev
Temporary Insolvency Manager
40022, Ukraine, Sumi region,
Psilska Str. 4, office 9
Phone: 22-19-78, 21-84-21
ECONOMIC COURT OF SUMI REGION
40477, Ukraine, Sumi region,
Ribalko Str. 2
KRUSHINKA-GARDEN: Proofs of Claim Deadline Set September 17
-----------------------------------------------------------
The Economic Court of Kyiv region has commenced bankruptcy
supervision procedure on OJSC Krushinka-Garden (code EDRPOU
19424932). The case is docketed as 38/14 B-04. Mr. Vyacheslav
Letskan (License Number AA 419239 approved on October 21, 2002)
has been appointed temporary insolvency manager. The company
holds account number 26008451 at JSPPB Aval, Vasilkivska branch,
MFO 321994.
Creditors have until September 17, 2004 to submit their proofs
of claim to:
(a) KRUSHINKA-GARDEN
Ukraine, Kyiv region,
Vasilkivskij district,
Krushinka, Kolgospna Str. 6
(b) Mr. Vyacheslav Letskan
Temporary Insolvency Manager
Ukraine, Kyiv region,
Dovzhnko Str. 16-c/42
(c) ECONOMIC COURT OF KYIV REGION
01033, Ukraine, Kyiv region,
Zhelyanska Str. 58 b
LIPOVODOLINSKE: Sumi Court Opens Bankruptcy Proceedings
-------------------------------------------------------
The Economic Court of Sumi region declared LLC Agroindustrial
Company Lipovodolinske (code EDRPOU 01766106) insolvent and
introduced bankruptcy proceedings on July 12, 2004. The case is
docketed as 12/25-04. Arbitral manager Mr. S. Chzhen (License
Number AA 250088 approved on November 30, 2001) has been
appointed liquidator/insolvency manager.
The company holds account number 26007304 at OJSC Oshadbank of
Ukraine, Lipova Dolina branch, MFO 337698.
CONTACT: AGROINDUSTRIAL COMPANY LIPOVODOLINSKE
42500, Ukraine, Sumi region,
Lipova Dolina, Romenska Str. 51
ECONOMIC COURT OF SUMI REGION
40477, Ukraine, Sumi region,
Ribalko Str. 2
MTS-SOUTH: Bankruptcy Supervision Begins
----------------------------------------
The Economic Court of Zaporizhya region commenced bankruptcy
supervision procedure on LLC MTS-South (code EDRPOU 24519876)
on June 10, 2004. The case is docketed as 25/98. Arbitral
manager Mr. Vyacheslav Rubashko (License Number AA 719883) has
been appointed temporary insolvency manager.
Creditors have until September 17, 2004 to submit their proofs
of claim to:
(a) MTS-SOUTH
72500, Ukraine, Zaporizhya region,
Yakimivka, B. Hmelnitskij Str. 2
(b) Mr. Vyacheslav Rubashko
Temporary Insolvency Manager
72319, Ukraine, Zaporizhya region,
Melitopol, Fuchek Str. 14
Phone: 8 (050) 684-32-83
(c) ECONOMIC COURT OF ZAPORIZHYA REGION
69001, Ukraine, Zaporizhya region,
Shaumyana Str. 4
SHUMSKIJ AGROPOSTACH: Last Day for Filing Claims September 17
-------------------------------------------------------------
The Economic Court of Ternopil region has commenced bankruptcy
supervision procedure on OJSC Shumskij Agropostach (code EDRPOU
00907208). The case is docketed as 11/B-446. Mr. Volodimir
Stepanov (License Number AA 520149) has been appointed temporary
insolvency manager. The company holds account number
26004410120001 at JSCB Ukraine, MFO 338233.
Creditors have until September 17, 2004 to submit their proofs
of claim to:
(a) SHUMSKIJ AGROPOSTACH
Ukraine, Ternopil region,
Shumsk, I. Franko Str. 2
(b) Mr. Volodimir Stepanov
Temporary Insolvency Manager
Ukraine, Ternopil region,
I. Franko Str. 7/7
(c) ECONOMIC COURT OF TERNOPIL REGION
46000, Ukraine, Ternopil region,
Ostrozski Str. 14a
TECHNOFTEROS: Proofs of Claim Deadline Expires September 17
-----------------------------------------------------------
The Economic Court of Harkiv region commenced bankruptcy
supervision procedure on LLC Technofteros (code EDRPOU 30288423)
on August 6, 2004. The case is docketed as B-25/51-04.
Arbitral manager Mr. V. Zarivajko (License Number AA 668332
approved on October 23, 2003) has been appointed temporary
insolvency manager. The company holds account number
260070133783 at OJSC Inprombank, MFO 351878.
Creditors have until September 17, 2004 to submit their proofs
of claim to:
(a) TECHNOFTEROS
Ukraine, Harkiv region,
Trufanov Str. 14/39
(b) Mr. V. Zarivajko
Temporary Insolvency Manager
Ukraine, Harkiv region,
Petrovskij Str. 6/8-15
Phone: 7-55-97
(c) ECONOMIC COURT OF HARKIV REGION
61022, Ukraine, Harkiv region,
Svobodi square, 5, Derzhprom,
8th entrance
TERA LTD.: Court Affirms Insolvency
-----------------------------------
The Economic Court of Kyiv declared LLC Firm Tera LTD. (code
EDRPOU 21584264) insolvent and introduced bankruptcy proceedings
on July 26, 2004. The case is docketed as 46/56-B. Mr.
Volodimir Kolomiyets has been appointed liquidator/insolvency
manager. The company holds account number 26004000020602 at
JSCB Kyiv region, MFO 322498.
Creditors have until September 17, 2004 to submit their proofs
of claim to:
(a) FIRM TERA LTD.
Ukraine, Kyiv region,
Prorizna Str. 2
(b) Mr. Volodimir Kolomiyets
Liquidator/Insolvency Manager
Ukraine, Kyiv region,
Mayakovskij Avenue, 64a/198
(c) ECONOMIC COURT OF KYIV REGION
01030, Ukraine, Kyiv region,
B. Hmelnitskij Boulevard, 44-B
VELIKOCHERNECHINSKA: Names Yurij Hovrin Insolvency Manager
----------------------------------------------------------
The Economic Court of Sumi region declared LLC Agrofirm
Velikochernechinska (code EDRPOU 30879996) insolvent and
introduced bankruptcy proceedings on February 26, 2004. The
case is docketed as 6/17. Arbitral manager Mr. Yurij Hovrin
(License Number AA 783224 approved on June 21, 2004) has been
appointed liquidator/insolvency manager.
CONTACT: AGROFIRM VELIKOCHERNECHINSKA
Ukraine, Sumi region,
Sumi district, Velika Chernechina
Mr. Yurij Hovrin
Liquidator/Insolvency Manager
40030, Ukraine, Sumi region,
a/b 282
ECONOMIC COURT OF SUMI REGION
40030, Ukraine, Sumi region,
Ribalko Str. 2
===========================
U N I T E D K I N G D O M
===========================
ABBEY INDUSTRIAL: Names Joint Liquidators from CBA
--------------------------------------------------
At an extraordinary general meeting of the Abbey Industrial
Roofing Limited on August 27, 2004 held at Lichfield Place, 435
Lichfield Road, Aston, Birmingham B6 7SS, the ordinary and
extraordinary resolutions to wind up the company were passed.
Geoff Robbins and Neil Richard Gibson of CBA, Lichfield Place,
435 Lichfield Road, Aston, Birmingham B6 7SS have been appointed
joint liquidators for the purpose of such winding-up.
CONTACT: CBA
Lichfield Place
435 Lichfield Road, Aston,
Birmingham B6 7SS
Joint Liquidators:
Geoff Robbins
Neil Richard Gibson
ABERDEEN DEVELOPMENT: Plans to Repay Existing Zeros
---------------------------------------------------
Executive Summary
Introduction
(a) ADC has filed a petition with the Court of Session in
Edinburgh in respect of a scheme of arrangement under
section 425 of the Companies Act 1985. The purpose of the
Scheme is to allow repayment of the final capital
Entitlement of the Existing Zeros on 6 July 2005 without
requiring ADC to be wound up at that time.
(b) ADC is seeking to implement the Scheme at this time in order
to remove the current uncertainty over its long-term future
and to facilitate raising funds to finance the repayment of
the Group's zero dividend preference shares in July 2005.
(c) The Company will shortly be posting full details of the
Proposals, including the terms of the Scheme of Arrangement,
the expected timetable and the approvals required, to
Shareholders in order to seek their approval for the
Scheme.
Overview of the Proposals
(a) ADC's life will be continued beyond 6 July 2005.
(b) Pursuant to a scheme of arrangement in respect of ADC, the
Existing Zeros will be cancelled in exchange for the issue
to Existing Zero Shareholders of new zero dividend
preference shares by a new subsidiary of ADC (ADC Zeros
2005).
(c) The rights of the New Zeros will be substantially similar to
the rights of the Existing Zeros (in particular, each New
Zero will to confer the right to receive 98.2845p on 6 July
2005).
(d) ADC's investment manager will seek to optimize the total
return from each of ADC's investments, with greater
flexibility as to the balance between the income and capital
components of such investments.
(e) The Group will cease to have a split capital structure
following the repayment of the New Zeros in July 2005.
Principal Benefits of the Proposals
(a) The Board believes that, as a result of the Scheme, the
liquidation costs incurred in connection with repayment of
the Group's zero dividend preference shares will be
substantially reduced and value within ADC's portfolio will
be preserved, whilst still enabling repayment of the Group's
zero dividend preference shares on the scheduled date in
2005.
(b) Continuing access to ADC's Fund Managers through a listed
vehicle, which has a strong investment performance record.
(c) Over the five years ended 31 May 2004 (ADC's financial year
end) ADC generated a total return of 45.9% on Ordinary
Shareholders' funds, which compares with an average net
asset value total return of 19.2% for the Datastream Private
Equity Investment Trusts (ex 3i) Index and 14.9% for the
FTSE SmallCap (ex Investment Trusts) Index over this period.
(d) ADC's Fund Managers have also demonstrated a good track
record over the longer term, producing an IRR on realized
and unrealized unquoted investments of 25.3% since they
commenced investment in 1986.
(e) The reversion of the Group to a conventional capital
structure following the repayment of the New Zeros in 2005.
Funding repayment of the New Zeros
(a) It is expected that repayment of the New Zeros will be
financed from a combination of existing cash resources,
realizations and new funding. The Board and its advisers
are exploring alternative means of raising new capital
prior to July 2005.
(b) In order to provide New Zero Shareholders and Ordinary
Shareholders with comfort that ADC will have the necessary
cash resources to repay the final capital entitlement of the
New Zeros on the Zero Repayment Date, the Board has agreed
outline terms for a bank facility of up to GBP20 million for
the purpose of such repayment. The Board has not entered
into a formal facility agreement at this stage as to do so
would incur a commitment fee.
Dividends
(a) The Directors expect, in the absence of unforeseen
circumstances, to maintain the aggregate dividends payable
in respect of the current financial year ending 31 May 2005
at the same level as in respect of the last financial year
(being 5.2p per Ordinary Share). For the avoidance of
doubt, the indication given above of the aggregate dividends
that are expected to be payable in respect of the current
financial year is not a profit forecast.
(b) The Directors propose to review the level of dividends which
may be payable in respect of future financial years in
conjunction with finalizing ADC's future financing
requirements. It is expected that there will be a reduction
from the existing level of dividends as a result of the
Group ceasing to have a split capital structure and
focusing on optimizing total returns on investments.
General
(a) The Scheme of Arrangement is subject to, among others,
Shareholders' approval at various meetings, the sanction of
the Court and the admission of the New Zeros to the Official
List.
(b) This executive summary should be read in conjunction with
the full text of the accompanying announcement from which it
has been derived.
A full copy of this press release is available free of charge at
http://bankrupt.com/misc/aberdeen.htm.
THIS ANNOUNCEMENT IS NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR
DISTRIBUTION IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES, CANADA, AUSTRALIA,
JAPAN OR THE REPUBLIC OF IRELAND.
CONTACT: ABERDEEN ASSET MANAGERS LIMITED
Hugh Little
Phone: 01224 631 999
INTELLI CORPORATE FINANCE LIMITED
Gordon Neilly
Darren Willis
Phone: 020 7653 6300
ACM PAPER: Calls in Liquidator
------------------------------
At an extraordinary general meeting of the members of the ACM
Paper Conversters Ltd Company on August 31, 2004 held at 27 The
Downs, Altrincham, Cheshire WA14 2QD, the ordinary and
extraordinary resolutions to wind up the company were passed.
Neil Henry and Michael Simister of Lines Henry, 27 The Downs,
Altrincham, Cheshire WA14 2QD have been appointed joint
liquidators for the purpose of such winding-up.
CONTACT: LINES HENRY
27 The Downs, Altrincham,
Cheshire WA14 2QD
Joint Liquidators:
Neil Henry
Michael Simister
ANDREW LOWE: Appoints Liquidator
--------------------------------
At an extraordinary general meeting of the members of the Andrew
Lowe Interiors Limited (t/a Lowe Interiors) on August 24, 2004
at Mountview Court, 1148 High Road, Whetstone, London N20 0RA,
the ordinary and extraordinary resolutions to wind up the
company were passed. Kikis Kallis has been appointed liquidator
for the purpose of such winding-up.
AUTOMOTIVE PRECISION: In Creditors' Voluntary Liquidation
---------------------------------------------------------
(1) Introduction
On 12 December 2003 Automotive Precision Holdings PLC announced
that it had experienced trading difficulties and that it had
been unsuccessful in discussions to refinance its business. As
a result, Neil Tombs and Andrew Menzies of Grant Thornton were
appointed joint administrators to the sole trading subsidiary,
Automotive Precision Components Limited (APC) and the Company's
shares were suspended from trading on the London Stock Exchange
pending clarification of its financial position.
The insolvency of APC has crystallized a number of liabilities
in the Company in relation to guarantees of indebtedness given
by the Company in respect of certain of APC's debts. The only
significant asset of the Company is the inter-company debt due
from APC to APH. However, due to the insolvency of APC, this
debt will not be repaid in full and this renders APH insolvent.
The only other asset of the Company is its investment in
Promptpost Limited. However, Promptpost itself is insolvent
because its main asset, the inter-Company debt due from APH,
will not be paid in full and its other asset, the investment in
APC, is now worthless. As a result, APH's investment in
Promptpost has no value.
At 11 December, 2003, the Company owed approximately GBP6.6
million to a subsidiary company, Promptpost Limited, which in
turn owed approximately GBP3.5 million to APC; APC owed the
Company approximately GBP7.7 million. As APC is estimated by
the directors of APC to have a deficiency to creditors
(excluding the amounts owing to the Company) of approximately
GBP5,753,000, the Company is therefore insolvent.
At a meeting of the board of directors of the Company on 29
January 2004, the financial position of the Company was
discussed and it was resolved that the Company was unable to pay
its debts as they fell due and steps should, therefore, be taken
to place the Company into Creditors' Voluntary Liquidation.
(2) The Proposals
The following proposals are being put to shareholders.
(a) "That it has been proved to the satisfaction of the meeting
that the Company cannot, by reason of its liabilities,
continue its business and that the Company be wound up
voluntarily."
(b) "That Neil Tombs and Andrew Menzies of Grant Thornton,
Enterprise House, 115 Edmund Street, Birmingham B3 2HJ be
appointed joint liquidators of the Company for the purpose
of the voluntary winding-up."
(3) Cancellation of Listing
In accordance with the Listing Rules of the U.K. Listing
Authority, notice is hereby given to shareholders that the
Company intends to cancel the listing of the ordinary shares of
the Company on the London Stock Exchange with effect from
4 October 2004.
(4) Extraordinary General Meeting
The Proposals are to be put before shareholders for approval at
an Extraordinary General Meeting to be held on 20 September 2004
at 10:00 a.m. at The Stockholm Suite, Euston Plaza Hotel, 17-18,
Upper Woburn Place, London WC1H 0HT.
A circular setting out full details of the Proposals is being
posted to shareholders. A copy is available for inspection at
the U.K. Listing Authority's Document Viewing Facility, which is
situated at:
Financial Service Authority
25 The North Colonnade
Canary Wharf
London, E14 5HS
Phone: 020 7066 1000
CONTACT: GRANT THORNTON
Sarah Crick-Linton
Phone: 0870 991 2489
TAVISTOCK COMMUNICATIONS
Peter Willetts
Phone: 020 7920 3150
BAXTER RESOURCING: Creditors to Meet Friday
-------------------------------------------
The creditors of Baxter Resourcing Limited will meet on
September 10, 2004 commencing at 12:00 noon. It will be held at
The Quality Boundary Hotel, Birmingham Road, Walsall,
Birmingham.
Creditors who want to be represented at the meeting may appoint
proxies. Proxy forms must be submitted together with written
debt claims to Bridgestones, 125-127 Union Street, Oldham OL1
1TE not later than 12:00 noon, September 9, 2004.
CONTACT: BRIDGESTONES
125-127 Union Street,
Oldham OL1 1TE
Joint Administrators:
Jonathan Lord
Robert Cooksey
BAY MANUFACTURING: Hires Joint Liquidators from PKF
---------------------------------------------------
At an extraordinary general meeting of the members of the Bay
Manufacturing Limited on August 25, 2004 held at PKF, Sovereign
House, Queen Street, Manchester M2 5HR, the ordinary and
extraordinary resolutions to wind up the company were passed.
Kerry Bailey and Jonathan D Newell of PKF, Sovereign House,
Queen Street, Manchester M2 5HR have been appointed joint
liquidators for the purpose of such winding-up.
CONTACT: PKF
Sovereign House,
Queen Street,
Manchester M2 5HR
Joint Liquidators:
Kerry Bailey
Jonathan D Newell
Phone: 0161 8325481
Fax: 0161 8323849
E-mail: info.manchester@uk.pkf.com
Web site: http://www.pkf.co.uk
B & B TRANSPORT: In Administrative Receivership
-----------------------------------------------
Close Invoice Finance Limited called in David Harry Gilbert and
Peter Supperstone as joint administrative receivers for B & B
Transport Limited (Reg No 03732838, Trade Classification: 28).
The application was filed August 26, 2004. The company is
engaged in freight transport by road.
CONTACT: BDO STOY HAYWARD LLP
8 Baker Street,
London W1U 3LL
Joint Administrative Receiver:
David Harry Gilbert
(Office Holder No 2376/01)
Phone: 020 7486 5888
Fax: 020 7487 3686
E-mail: london@bdo.co.uk
Web site: http://www.bdo.co.uk
BDO STOY HAYWARD LLP
125 Colmore Row,
Birmingham B3 3SD
Joint Administrative Receiver:
Anthony Peter Supperstone
(Office Holder No 2703/01)
Phone: 0121 200 4600
Fax: 0121 200 4650
E-mail: birmingham@bdo.co.uk
Web site: http://www.bdo.co.uk
BED AND BREAKFAST: Barclays Bank Appoints KPMG Receiver
-------------------------------------------------------
Barclays Bank plc called in Paul Andrew Flint and Brian Green as
administrative receivers for Bed and Breakfast Direct Limited
(Reg No 04424461, Trade Classification: SIC 55100). The
application was filed August 23, 2004. The company manages
hotel and motels.
CONTACT: KPMG LLP
St James' Square,
Manchester M2 6DS
Administrative Receivers:
Paul Andrew Flint
Brian Green
Phone: (0161) 838 4000
Fax: (0161) 838 4040
Web site: http://www.kpmg.co.uk
BIRKBY'S LIMITED: Members Final General Meeting Set September 30
----------------------------------------------------------------
The final general meeting of the members of Birkby's Limited
will be on September 30, 2004 commencing at 10:30 a.m. It will
be held at KPMG LLP, 8 Salisbury Square, London EC4Y 8BB.
The purpose of the meeting is to receive the account showing
how the winding-up has been conducted and the property of the
company disposed of, and to hear any explanation that may be
given by the liquidator. Members who want to be represented at
the meeting may appoint proxies. Proxy forms must be lodged
with KPMG LLP, 8 Salisbury Square, London EC4Y 8BB not later
than 12:00 noon, September 29, 2004.
CONTACT: KPMG LLP
PO Box 695,
8 Salisbury Square,
London EC4Y 8BB
Joint Liquidator:
J Spratt
Phone: (020) 7311 1000
Fax: (020) 7311 3311 or
+44 (0) 20 7694 3533
Web site: http://www.kpmg.co.uk
BRITISH ENERGY: Warns of Insolvency if Rescue Plan Fails
--------------------------------------------------------
Requisition for an Extraordinary General Meeting by Polygon
Investment Partners LLP and Brandes Investment Partners LLC
given on 3 September 2004.
In a letter dated 3 September 2004, Polygon Investment Partners
LLP and Brandes Investment Partners LLC have given notice of
their requisition of an Extraordinary General Meeting proposing
a number of resolutions. The Company is considering its
response to the requisition.
The Company agreed to implement the proposed restructuring in
October 2003 and although a number of important conditions and
significant uncertainties remain, the Company will continue its
efforts to implement the proposed restructuring in accordance
with these agreements. Furthermore if for any reason the
proposed restructuring cannot be implemented the Board may need
to commence insolvency proceedings. If insolvency proceedings
are commenced, distributions (if any) to unsecured creditors may
represent only a small fraction of their unsecured claims and it
is highly unlikely there would be any return for shareholders.
CONTACT: BRITISH ENERGY
Andrew Dowler
Media
Phone: 020 7831 3113
John Searles
Investor Relations
Phone: 01355 262 202
BROWNS FINE: Names Liquidator from Tomlinsons
---------------------------------------------
At an extraordinary general meeting of the Browns Fine Jewellery
Limited on August 27, 2004 held at Tomlinsons, St John's Court,
72 Gartside Street, Manchester M3 3EL, the resolutions to wind
up the company were passed. Alan H Tomlinson of Tomlinsons, St
John's Court, 72 Gartside Street, Manchester M3 3EL has been
appointed as liquidator for the purpose of such winding-up.
CONTACT: TOMLINSONS
St John's Court,
72 Gartside Street,
Manchester M3 3EL
Liquidator:
Alan H Tomlinson
Phone: 0870 60 70 170
Fax: 0870 60 70 180
E-mail: advice@tomlinsons.co.uk
Web site: http://www.tomlinsons.co.uk
COMPLETE HANDLING: HSBC Bank Appoints P&A Partnership Receiver
--------------------------------------------------------------
HSBC Bank plc called in Philip Andrew Revill and Brian Stanley
Creber as joint administrative receivers for Complete Handling
(Midlands) Limited (Reg No 03697068). The application was filed
August 25, 2004.
CONTACT: THE P&A PARTNERSHIP
93 Queen Street
Sheffield S1 1WF
Joint Administrative Receivers:
Philip Andrew Revill
Brian Stanley Creber
Phone: (0114) 275 5033
Fax: (0114) 276 8556
E-mail: info@poppletonappleby.co.uk
Web site: http://www.thepandapartnership.com
DAMHEAD ENERGY: Names Ernst & Young Liquidator
----------------------------------------------
At an extraordinary general meeting of the Damhead Energy
Limited on August 23, 2004 held at Ernst & Young LLP, 1 More
London Place, London SE1 2AF, the special resolutions to wind up
the company were passed. Elizabeth Anne Bingham and Alan
Lovett, of Ernst & Young LLP, 1 More London Place, London SE1
2AF have been appointed joint liquidators for the purpose of
such winding-up.
CONTACT: ERNST & YOUNG LLP
1 More London Place
London SE1 2AF
Joint Liquidators:
Elizabeth Anne Bingham
Alan Lovett
Phone: +44 [0] 20 7951 2000
Fax: +44 [0] 20 7951 1345
Web site: http://www.ey.com
DAWSON INTERNATIONAL: Sells Joseph Dawson for GBP6.6 Million
------------------------------------------------------------
Dawson International plc conditionally agreed to sell its Joseph
Dawson fiber business to Life Long Limited (to be re-named
Joseph Dawson Limited following completion of the sale), for a
cash consideration of approximately GBP6.6 million. The total
consideration will be finally determined by reference to the net
asset value of stock and debtors of the Joseph Dawson Business
at completion.
Information on the Joseph Dawson Business
The Joseph Dawson Business operates as a division of Dawson
International Trading Limited (DITL), a subsidiary of the
Company. It procures and/or processes cashmere fiber primarily
from sources in Asia for sale to industrial yarn and weaving
customers worldwide. Its major markets are Italy, the United
Kingdom and Germany. It employs approximately 20 people, mainly
based in Kinross, Scotland. In the year ended 3 January 2004
the business being sold made an unaudited loss before tax of
GBP3.1 million and had unaudited net assets of GBP7.6 million.
Historically the Joseph Dawson Business has also procured
cashmere for sale to Todd & Duncan, the yarn spinning division
of DITL. This part of the business is excluded from the sale,
as the Todd & Duncan division will now procure cashmere on its
own behalf. Five employees from the Joseph Dawson Business will
transfer to Todd & Duncan as a result.
Reasons for the Sale
The Company has identified the disposal of the Joseph Dawson
Business, which has been loss making since 2001, as a component
of its recovery strategy. Whilst recent management actions have
improved the underlying trading results, the Directors of the
Company consider that with today's competitive position, it is
unlikely that the Joseph Dawson Business will produce returns
which meet the marginal cost of its invested capital.
Use of net proceeds and benefits
The net proceeds of the Sale as detailed below would
significantly reduce the continuing Dawson International Group's
net indebtedness. The Company would then be in a position to
consider the early repayment of certain of the Company's zero
coupon, convertible, secured redeemable loan stock 2009 and to
further develop the continuing Dawson International Group's
activities.
Terms of the Sale
The total consideration for the Sale, before estimated fees and
associated costs of GBP0.5 million, is approximately GBP6.6
million in cash of which GBP0.1 million is payable immediately
and the balance payable on completion. The net assets being
disposed of are currently estimated at GBP7.2 million. As noted
above, the total consideration will be finally determined by
reference to the net asset value of stock and debtors of the
Joseph Dawson Business at completion. Limited warranties and
covenants are given to the Purchaser by Dawson International
Trading Limited and Dawson International Holdings (U.K.) Limited
(which are subsidiaries of the Company) in respect of the Joseph
Dawson Business.
The Purchaser will acquire certain fixed assets, the stock, and
the substantial majority of the debtors and creditors of the
Joseph Dawson Business as at completion. In addition, the
Purchaser will acquire the Joseph Dawson name and goodwill
relative to the business. Arrangements have been made for Todd
& Duncan to source cashmere for the Joseph Dawson Business at
the request of and as agent for the Purchaser for an initial
period of at least one year on the terms of a buying agency
agreement. There are also certain other transitional
arrangements.
Mr. William Holdsworth, a shareholder in and managing director
of the Purchaser, will personally guarantee the discharge by the
Joseph Dawson Business of certain obligations assumed by the
Purchaser.
Completion
Completion of the Sale is conditional, inter alia, upon
Shareholders' approval and satisfaction of certain conditions
precedent to the Purchaser's financing arrangements as at
completion. A Circular (which will incorporate full details of
the proposed Sale and a notice of Extraordinary General Meeting)
is presently being prepared and will be published shortly.
Prospects for the Continuing Dawson International Group
The Directors believe that the Sale represents a further step in
the restructuring and the refinancing of the continuing Dawson
International Group. As announced on 15 June 2004, the Company
is making progress in discussions with a number of potential
providers of senior debt facilities, with a view to the early
redemption of certain of the Loan Stock in accordance with its
terms. The Company hopes to make a further announcement in this
regard in the near future.
Following the Sale, the businesses within the continuing Dawson
International Group will principally comprise:
(a) Todd & Duncan a U.K.-based business spinning
cashmere and blended yarns,
primarily for the European market;
(b) Barrie a U.K.-based knitwear manufacturer
providing private label and own
branded knitwear; and
(c) Dawson Cashmere USA a U.S.-based business sourcing,
distributing and marketing cashmere
knitwear from China.
Following completion of the Sale, the Directors' operational
focus will be the market development, improved operational
efficiencies and further reduction of the cost base within the
Continuing Dawson International Group with a view to building
shareholder value. The Directors are considering how to further
develop the scale of the Dawson International Group's
activities, whilst cognizant of the Dawson International Group's
financing constraints.
CONTACT: DAWSON INTERNATIONAL PLC
David G Cooper
Finance Director
Phone: 01577 867000
Media enquiries:
Gordon Beattie
Beattie Communications
Phone: 07768 588 163
DELPHUS UK: Calls in Liquidators from PKF
-----------------------------------------
At an extraordinary general meeting of the members of the
Delphus UK Limited on August 25, 2004 held at PKF, Sovereign
House, Queen Street, Manchester M2 5HR, the ordinary and
extraordinary resolutions to wind up the company were passed.
Kerry Bailey and Jonathan D Newell of PKF Sovereign House, Queen
Street, Manchester M2 5HR have been appointed joint liquidators
for the purpose of such winding-up.
CONTACT: PKF
Sovereign House,
Queen Street,
Manchester M2 5HR
Joint Liquidators:
Kerry Bailey
Jonathan D Newell
Phone: 0161 8325481
Fax: 0161 8323849
E-mail: info.manchester@uk.pkf.com
Web site: http://www.pkf.co.uk
DELTANOTE LIMITED: Names Joint Liquidators from KPMG
----------------------------------------------------
At an extraordinary general meeting of the Deltanote Limited on
August 26, 2004 held at 4-5 Arlington Road, London SW18 1RA, the
special and ordinary resolutions to wind up the company were
passed. Mark Jeremy Orton and Allan Watson Graham of KPMG
Corporate Recovery, 2 Cornwall Street, Birmingham B3 2DL have
been appointed joint liquidators for the purpose of such
winding-up.
CONTACT: KPMG
Corporate Recovery
2 Cornwall Street,
Birmingham B3 2DL
Joint Liquidators:
Mark Jeremy Orton
Allan Watson Graham
Phone: (0121) 232 3000
Fax: (0121) 232 3500
Web site: http://www.kpmg.co.uk
DETECTAPLANT LTD.: May Appoint Liquidator September 14
------------------------------------------------------
IN THE MATTER OF THE INSOLVENCY ACT 1986
and
IN THE MATTER OF Detectaplant Ltd.
Notice is hereby given, pursuant to section 98 of the Insolvency
Act 1986, that a meeting of Creditors of Detectaplant Ltd. will
be held at 4 Dancastle Court 14 Arcadia Avenue London N3 2HS on
September 14, 2004 at 12:00 p.m. for the purpose of having a
full statement of the position of the Company's affairs,
together with a list of the Creditors of the Company and the
estimated amount of their claims, laid before them, and for the
purpose, if thought fit, of nominating a Liquidator and of
appointing a Liquidation Committee. (Sections 99-101 of the said
Act)
In accordance with section 98 (2) Insolvency Act 1986, a list of
Creditors' names and addresses will be available for inspection,
free of charge, at Valentine & Co, 4 Dancastle Court 14 Arcadia
Avenue London N3 2HS two business days prior to the meeting.
By Order of the Board.
P. Salisbury, Director
August 2, 2004
CONTACT: VALENTINE & CO
4 Dancastle Court
14 Arcadia Avenue
London N3 2HS
Phone: 020 8343 3710
Fax: 020 9343 4486
Web site: http://www.valentine-co.com
FAST RETAILING: Hires Joint Liquidators from KPMG
-------------------------------------------------
At a general meeting of the Fast Retailing (U.K.) Limited the
special and ordinary resolutions to wind up the company were
passed. Jeremy Simon Spratt and Finbarr O'Connell of KPMG LLP,
8 Salisbury Square, London EC4Y 8BB have been appointed joint
liquidators for the purpose of such winding-up.
CONTACT: KPMG LLP
PO Box 695,
8 Salisbury Square,
London EC4Y 8BB
Joint Liquidators:
Jeremy Simon Spratt
Finbarr O'Connell
Phone: (020) 7311 1000
Fax: (020) 7311 3311
Web site: http://www.kpmg.co.uk
INGLEBY (591): Winding up Resolutions Passed
--------------------------------------------
At an extraordinary general meeting of the members of the
Ingleby (591) Limited on August 31, 2004 held at KPMG LLP, 2
Cornwall Street, Birmingham B3 2DL, the special and ordinary
resolutions to wind up the company were passed. Mark Jeremy
Orton and Allan Watson Graham of KPMG Corporate Recovery, 2
Cornwall Street, Birmingham B3 2DL have been appointed joint
liquidators for the purpose of such winding up.
CONTACT: KPMG
Corporate Recovery
2 Cornwall Street,
Birmingham B3 2DL
Joint Liquidators:
Mark Jeremy Orton
Allan Watson Graham
Phone: (0121) 232 3000
Fax: (0121) 232 3500
Web site: http://www.kpmg.co.uk
JARVIS PLC: Sells Bidding and Management Operations
---------------------------------------------------
Jarvis Plc announced on September 1, 2004 that in line with its
restructuring strategy it has signed heads of terms for the sale
of its University Partnerships Program (UPP) bidding and SPV
management operations to the Alma Mater Fund Limited
Partnership. The proposed transaction is conditional on due
diligence and completion of documentation, and is not expected
to be material in the context of the Jarvis Group.
The Alma Mater Fund has previously partnered the UPP business
and the university clients in developing university student
accommodation projects and had recently acquired the economic
interests in a number of the investments held in the UPP joint
venture special purpose vehicles from the Group. Alma Mater is
a joint venture partnership co managed by 3i and Barclays
Private Equity and aims to develop a portfolio of student
accommodation projects in partnership with universities across
the U.K.
Jarvis can also confirm that, further to its announcement of
July 1, 2004 concerning the conditional sale agreement in
respect its interest in Baltic Rail Services OU, the majority
shareholder in Estonian Railways (AS Eesti Raudtee), that this
transaction has now completed and the cash consideration of
GBP6.7 million has been received.
CONTACT: JARVIS PLC
Paul Ravenscroft
Phone: 020 7017 8127
E-mail: paul.ravenscroft@jarvis-uk.com
TULCHAN COMMUNICATIONS
Andrew Honnor or David Trenchard
Phone: 020 7 353 4200
JARVIS PLC: Names Alistair Rae New Finance Director
---------------------------------------------------
Jarvis plc appointed Alistair Rae in an executive capacity as
its new group finance director with immediate effect. The
company announced on April 15 2004 that Mr. Rae had been
appointed the acting group finance director. Mr. Rae is a
non-executive director of LTG Technologies plc.
At the date of appointment, Mr. Rae holds no shares or options
over shares in the Company and there is no information to be
disclosed in respect of paragraphs 6.F.2 (b)-(g) of the listing
rules.
Kevin Hyde, group chief executive, said: "I am delighted that we
have been able to confirm the appointment of Alistair in this
important role.
"He has undertaken the responsibilities of group finance
director at the most difficult and exacting time, and has guided
us through a very complex situation.
"In a very short time he has established himself as a leading
figure in the group and gained the respect of all those with
whom he works, both within and outside the company.
"He is a crucial figure in the recovery process we have
underway."
Biographical Note
Alistair joined Jarvis as director of corporate affairs in 2001
from HSBC investment bank. Prior to HSBC he worked for Cazenove
& Co in their corporate finance department in the U.K. and was
also the Managing Director of their Asian business, based in
Hong Kong. He qualified as a chartered accountant with KPMG in
1983 and subsequently worked for Deloitte.
CONTACT: JARVIS PLC
Paul Ravenscroft
Phone: 020 7017 8127
E-mail: paul.ravenscroft@jarvis-uk.com
TULCHAN COMMUNICATIONS
Andrew Honnor or David Trenchard
Phone: 020 7 353 4200
KNIGHT FINANCIAL: Members Agree to Wind up Business
---------------------------------------------------
At an extraordinary general meeting of the members of the Knight
Financial Products Limited on August 27, 2004 held at Guildhall
House, 81-87 Gresham Street, London EC2V 7NQ, the special and
ordinary resolutions to wind up the company were passed. David
Alan Rolph and Jeremy Mark Willmont of Moore Stephens, 1 Snow
Hill, London EC1A 2EN have been appointed joint liquidators for
the purpose of the voluntary winding-up.
CONTACT: MOORE STEPHENS
1 Snow Hill,
London EC1A 2EN
Joint Liquidators:
David Alan Rolph
Jeremy Mark Willmont
Phone: 020 7334 9191
Fax: 020 7248 3408
Web site: http://www.moorestephens.co.uk
KNOWLEDGE 111: Appoints DTE Leonard Curtis Administrator
--------------------------------------------------------
A Poxon and J M Titley have been appointed as joint
administrators for Knowledge 111 Limited. The appointment was
made August 23, 2004. The company is engaged in business and
management consultancy.
CONTACT: DTE LEONARD CURTIS
DTE House
Hollins Mount
Bury BL9 8AT
Joint Administrators:
J M Titley
A Poxon
(IP Nos 8620, 8617)
Phone: 0161 767 1200
Fax: 0161 767 1201
Web site: http://www.dtegroup.com
MARCONI CORPORATION: Pays US$1.2 Billion Assumed Debt
-----------------------------------------------------
Marconi Corporation plc now completed the full repayment, within
16 months, of the US$1.2 billion of debt that it assumed upon
completion of its financial restructuring on 19 May 2003. This
debt was originally due for repayment by 2008.
The last part of the US$717 million of Senior Secured Notes Due
2008 were redeemed on 1 September 2004. The US$487 million of
Junior Secured Notes were fully redeemed earlier this year.
Mike Parton, Chief Executive said: "The re-emergence of Marconi
has been completed with the repayment of the last of the debt
that we took on as part of our restructuring. An anticipated
annual interest charge of over US$100 million per annum has been
eliminated through the prompt repayment of the debt."
"The early paydown of all of our restructuring debt is an
excellent achievement. We have emerged with a strong balance
sheet and can now fully focus our efforts on growing our
business."
About Marconi Corporation plc
Marconi Corporation plc (London: MONI and NASDAQ: MRCIY) is a
global telecommunications equipment, services and solutions
company. The company's core business is the provision of
innovative and reliable optical networks, broadband routing and
switching and broadband access technologies and services. The
company's customer base includes many of the world's largest
telecommunications operators.
The company is listed on the London Stock Exchange under the
symbol MONI and on NASDAQ under the ticker MRCIY. Additional
information about Marconi Corporation can be found at
http://www.marconi.com.
CONTACT: MARCONI CORPORATION
Press enquiries:
David Beck
Phone: +44 207 306 1490
E-mail: david.beck@marconi.com
Investor enquiries:
Heather Green
Phone: + 44 207 306 1735
E-mail: heather.green@marconi.com
MCGOVERN TAVERNS: Winding up Resolutions Passed
-----------------------------------------------
At an extraordinary general meeting of the members of the
Mcgovern Taverns Limited on August 25, 2004 held at Russell
Square House, 10-12 Russell Square, London WC1B 5LF, the
ordinary and extraordinary resolutions to wind up the company
were passed. John Charles Heath of Chantrey Vellacott DFK,
Russell Square House, 10-12 Russell Square, London WC1B 5LF has
been appointed liquidator of the Company for the purpose of the
voluntary winding-up.
CONTACT: CHANTREY VELLACOTT DFK
Russell Square House,
10-12 Russell Square,
London WC1B
Phone: 020 7509 9000
Fax: 020 7436 8884
Web site: http://www.cvdfk.com
PERTESCO LIMITED: Subjoined Special Winding up Resolution Passed
----------------------------------------------------------------
At a meeting of the Pertesco Limited on August 9, 2004, the
subjoined special resolution to wind up the company was passed.
Anthony John Galloway of BDO Stoy Hayward, Mander House,
Wolverhampton WV1 3NF has been appointed liquidator for the
purpose of such winding-up.
CONTACT: BDO STOY HAYWARD
Mander House
Wolverhampton WV1 3 NF
Liquidator:
Anthony John Galloway
Phone: 01902 714828
Fax: 01902 711475
E-mail: wolverhampton@bdo.co.uk
Web site: http://www.bdo.co.uk
QUALITY APPLIANCES: Meeting of Creditors Tuesday
------------------------------------------------
IN THE MATTER OF THE INSOLVENCY ACT 1986
and
IN THE MATTER OF Quality Appliances Ltd.
Notice is hereby given, pursuant to section 98 of the Insolvency
Act 1986, that a meeting of Creditors of Quality Appliances Ltd.
will be held at The Old Exchange 234 Southchurch Road
Southend-on-Sea SS1 2EG on September 14, 2004 at 11:30 a.m. for
the purpose of having a full statement of the position of the
Company's affairs, together with a list of the Creditors of the
Company and the estimated amount of their claims, laid before
them, and for the purpose, if thought fit, of nominating a
Liquidator and of appointing a Liquidation Committee. (Sections
99-101 of the said Act)
A Form of Proxy, if intended to be used by creditors wishing to
vote at the Meeting, must be duly completed and accompanied by
their statement of claim, and must be lodged at The Old Exchange
234 Southchurch Road Southend-on-Sea SS1 2EG not later than
12:00 noon on the business day before the Meeting.
Notice is also given, for the purpose of voting, that secured
Creditors must (unless they surrender their security) lodge at
The Old Exchange 234 Southchurch Road Southend-on-Sea SS1 2EG
before the Meeting, a statement giving particulars of their
security, the date when it was given, and the value at which it
is assessed.
Lloyd Biscoe of Begbies Traynor The Old Exchange 234 Southchurch
Road Southend-on-Sea SS1 2EG is a person qualified to act as an
Insolvency Practitioner in relation to the Company who will,
during the period before the day of the Meeting furnish
creditors free of charge with such information concerning the
Company's affairs as they may reasonably require.
By Order of the Board.
J. Lloyd, Director
August 17, 2004
CONTACT: BEGBIES TRAYNOR
The Old Exchange
234 Southchurch Road
Southend-on-Sea
SS1 2EG
Phone: 01702 467255
Fax: 01702 467201
E-mail: southend@begbies-traynor.com
Web site: http://www.begbies.com
QUARMBY & SON: Father and Son Earn Disqualifications
----------------------------------------------------
The father and son directors of an electrical contractors
business which failed with total debts estimated at around
GBP266,000 have given Undertakings not to hold directorships or
take any part in company management for two and half years and
three and half years respectively.
The Undertakings by Ronald Quarmby, 75, of Dean Fold,
Kirkburton, Huddersfield, and Matthew Quarmby, 36, of Sude Hill,
Newmill, Huddersfield, were given in respect of their conduct as
directors of Quarmby & Son Limited which carried on business
from premises at 55 Lockwood Road, Lockwood, Huddersfield, HD1
3QU.
Acceptance of the Undertaking on July 30, 2004 for Ronald
Quarmby and on August 18 for Matthew Quarmby prevents them being
directors of a company or, in any way, whether directly or
indirectly, being concerned in or taking part in the promotion,
formation or management of a company for the above periods.
Quarmby & Son Limited was placed into compulsory liquidation by
Order of the Birmingham District Registry on June 9, 2003 on the
petition of a trade creditor for GBP9,119.28. The company has an
estimated total deficiency of GBP265,848.
The Official Receiver at Leeds had conduct of the investigation
and disqualification procedure.
The Insolvency Service, on behalf of the Secretary of State for
Trade & Industry, has responsibility (under Section (6) of the
Company Directors Disqualification Act 1986) for the
investigation of the conduct of directors of failed companies
and for the disqualification of those who are considered to be
unfit to be involved in the management of companies in the
future.
The matters of unfit conduct, not disputed by Ronald Quarmby and
Matthew Quarmby solely for the purposes of the undertaking was
that they caused or allowed Quarmby to trade from August 2002
when they knew that Quarmby was insolvent having taken advice
from an Insolvency Practitioner on August 16, 2002.
CONTACT: THE INSOLVENCY SERVICE
21 Bloomsbury Street
London, WC1B 3QW
Web site: http://www.insolvency.gov.uk
Disqualification Unit
Phone: 020 7291 6807
020 7291 6832 (Vetting)
E-mail: Disqualification.Unit@insolvency.gsi.gov.uk
Criminal Allegations Team
Phone: 020 7291 6841
E-mail: criminal.allegations@insolvency.gsi.gov.uk
READS DISTRIBUTION: Insolvency Service Bans Five Directors
----------------------------------------------------------
Five directors of a freight transport business that failed with
debts of more than GBP662,000 have been disqualified in the
Colchester County Court from acting as company directors for a
combined period of 29 years.
Michael Richard Hearne, 55; Christine Hearne, 52; and Zoe Hearne
31, all of Brook Lane, Framlingham Suffolk and Chad Michael
Hearne, 34, and Siobhan Duggan, 31, were all directors of Reads
Distribution Ltd. (Reads), which carried on business from
premises at Transport Depot, London Road, Capel St Mary,
Ipswich, Suffolk, IP9 2JR.
Mr. M. Hearne, Mrs. C. Hearne and Ms. Z. Hearne were
disqualified for 10, 5 and 4 years respectively. Mr. C. Hearne
and Ms. Duggan were disqualified for 6 and 4 years respectively.
Reads was placed into voluntary liquidation on March 22, 2002
with estimated debts of GBP662,749.
The Disqualification Order, made on August 19, 2004 prevents Mr.
M. Hearne, Mrs. C. Hearne, Ms. Z. Hearne, Mr. C. Hearne and Ms.
Duggan from being directors of a company or in any way being
concerned in or taking part in the promotion, formation or
management of a company for the above periods.
The Insolvency Service, on behalf of the Secretary of State for
Trade & Industry, has responsibility (under Section (6) of the
Company Directors Disqualification Act 1986) for the
investigation of the conduct of directors of failed companies
and for the disqualification of those who are considered to be
unfit to be involved in the management of companies in the
future.
Matters of unfit conduct, found by the court, not disputed by
Mr. M. Hearne and Mrs. C. Hearne were that:
(a) Between no later than April 6, 2001 and the date of
liquidation on March 22, 2002, they caused or allowed Reads
to trade to the detriment of the Crown departments,
including the Inland Revenue and HMCE;
(b) Between December 1, 2001 and March 22, 2002, they failed to
ensure that Reads kept adequate accounting records;
(c) Between April 29, 2001 and November 1, 2001, they caused or
allowed Reads to contravene road traffic regulations such
that Reads' goods vehicle operator's license was revoked
with immediate effect and they were disqualified from
holding a goods vehicle operator's license either as a sole
trader, partner or company director for periods of 2 years
each throughout the United Kingdom.
Matters of unfit conduct, found by the court, not disputed by
Mr. C. Hearne and Ms. Z. Hearne were that:
(a) Between no later than 6 April 2001 and the date of their
resignation on November 22, 2001, they caused or allowed
Reads to trade to the detriment of the Crown departments,
including the Inland Revenue and HMCE;
(c) Between April 29, 2001 and November 1, 2001, they caused or
allowed Reads to contravene road traffic regulations such
that Reads' goods vehicle operator's license was revoked and
Mr. R. Hearne and Mrs. C. Hearne were disqualified from
holding a goods vehicle operator's license either as a sole
trader, partner or company director for periods of 2 years
each throughout the United Kingdom;
Matters of unfit conduct, found by the court, not disputed by
Ms. Duggan were that:
(a) Between no later than April 6, 2001 and the date of her
resignation on November 6, 2001, she caused or allowed Reads
to trade to the detriment of the Crown departments,
including the Inland Revenue and HMCE;
(b) between April 29, 2001 and November 1, 2001, she caused or
allowed Reads to contravene road traffic regulations such
that Reads' goods vehicle operator's license was revoked and
Michael Richard Hearne and Christine Hearne were
disqualified from holding a goods vehicle operator's license
either as a sole trader, partner or company director for
periods of 2 years each throughout the United Kingdom.
In addition, Mr. M. Hearne, Mrs. C. Hearne and Mr. C. Hearne did
not dispute the following in relation to their conduct as
directors of a company called Haven Container Services Limited
of which they were director:
(a) they caused or allowed Haven to contravene road traffic
regulations such that at a public enquiry held on August 19,
2003, Haven's goods vehicle operator's license was revoked,
Haven was disqualified indefinitely from holding a goods
vehicle operator's license, Mr. M. Hearne and Mrs. C. Hearne
were disqualified indefinitely from holding a goods vehicle
operator's license and Mr. C. Hearne was disqualified from
holding a goods vehicle operator's license for 5 years.
CONTACT: THE INSOLVENCY SERVICE
21 Bloomsbury Street
London, WC1B 3QW
Web site: http://www.insolvency.gov.uk
Disqualification Unit
Phone: 020 7291 6807
020 7291 6832 (Vetting)
E-mail: Disqualification.Unit@insolvency.gsi.gov.uk
Criminal Allegations Team
Phone: 020 7291 6841
E-mail: criminal.allegations@insolvency.gsi.gov.uk
REDSTAR MARKETING: Sets Creditors Meeting September 15
------------------------------------------------------
The creditors of Redstar Marketing (GB) Limited will meet on
September 15, 2004 commencing at 11:00 a.m. It will be held at
The Thistle Hotel, Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3UD.
Creditors who want to be represented at the meeting may appoint
proxies. Proxy forms must be submitted together with written
debt claims to PKF, 18 Park Place, Cardiff CF10 3PD not later
than 12:00 noon, September 14, 2004.
CONTACT: PKF
18 Park Place,
Cardiff CF10 3PD
Joint Administrators:
Keith R Morgan
Brian James Hamblin
Phone: 029 2064 6200
Fax: 029 2064 6201
E-mail: info.cardiff@uk.pkf.com
Web site: http://www.pkf.co.uk
SKYDUSK LIMITED: Names Wilder Coe Liquidator
--------------------------------------------
At an extraordinary general meeting of the members of the
Skydusk Limited on August 6, 2004 held at the offices of 5030
Forsythia Circle, Murrells Inlet, South Carolina 29576, USA, the
special, ordinary and extraordinary resolutions to wind up the
company were passed. Norman Cowan and Mark Pearce Riley of
Wilder Coe, 12th Floor, Southgate House, St George's Way,
Stevenage SG1 1HG have been appointed joint liquidators for the
purpose of such winding-up.
CONTACT: WILDER COE
12th Floor, Southgate House,
St George's Way,
Stevenage SG1 1HG
Joint Liquidators:
Norman Cowan
Mark Pearce Riley
Phone: 01438 847200
Fax: 01438 847150
Web site: http://www.wildercoe.co.uk
SKYEPHARMA PLC: 2004 Interim Results Out September 15
-----------------------------------------------------
SkyePharma PLC (LSE: SKP; Nasdaq: SKYE) will release its interim
financial results for the six months ended 30 June 2004 to the
London Stock Exchange at 07.00 BST on Wednesday 15 September
2004. Later that day the Company will host an analyst
presentation, which will be Web cast live, and a U.S. conference
call to review these results.
Michael Ashton, SkyePharma's Chief Executive Officer, will host
the analyst presentation. Investors and other interested
parties may view the live Web cast 10.00 BST at
http://www.skyepharma.comunder the Investor Relations tab.
U.S. Investors and other interested parties may access the
conference call at 10.00 EST (15.00 BST) by dialing
(800)-230-1093 for U.S. participants and +1-612-332-0335 for
international participants. The slides of the presentation will
be available at http://www.skyepharma.comunder the Investor
Relations tab.
For those unable to listen to the live broadcast, a replay will
be available shortly after the conference call by dialing
(800)-475-6701 for U.S. participants and +1-320-365-3844 for
international participants and entering Access Code 744673.
About SkyePharma
SkyePharma PLC uses its world-leading drug delivery technology
to develop easier-to-use and more effective formulations of
drugs. The majority of challenges faced in the formulation and
delivery of drugs can be addressed by one of the Company's
proprietary technologies in the areas of oral, injectable,
inhaled and topical delivery, supported by advanced
solubilization capabilities. For more information, visit
http://www.skyepharma.com
CONTACT: SKYEPHARMA PLC
Phone: +44 207 491 1777
Michael Ashton, Chief Executive Officer
Peter Laing, Director of Corporate Communications
Sandra Haughton, U.S. Investor Relations
Phone: +1 212 753 5780
BUCHANAN COMMUNICATIONS
Phone:+44 207 466 5000
Tim Anderson/Mark Court
SUNDERLAND FOOD: Creditors Meeting Set September 24
---------------------------------------------------
The creditors of Sunderland Food Products Limited will meet on
September 24, 2004 commencing at 10:00 a.m. It will be held at
Crowne Plaza Hotel, Wellington Street, Leeds LS1 1RF.
Creditors who want to be represented at the meeting may appoint
proxies. Proxy forms must be submitted together with written
debt claims to PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Benson House, 33
Wellington Street, Leeds LS1 4JP not later than 12:00 noon,
September 23, 2004.
CONTACT: PRICEWATERHOUSECOOPERS LLP
Benson House,
33 Wellington Street,
Leeds LS1 4JP
Joint Administrative Receivers:
D M Walker
E Klempka
Phone: [44] (113) 289 4000
Fax: [44] (113) 289 4460
Web site: http://www.pwcglobal.com
THORNTONS PLC: Reports Higher Full-year Pre-tax Profit
------------------------------------------------------
Thorntons PLC, the manufacturer, retailer and distributor of
high quality confectionery and other sweet foods, reports
preliminary results for the 52 weeks ended June 26, 2004.
Financial Key Points
(in GBP million) 2004 2003 Change
Turnover 178.7 167.1 +6.9%
Profit before tax 7.0 6.4 +9.6%
Profit before tax
and exceptional items 8.0 6.4 +24.7%
Cash inflow from
operating activities 18.1 24.9 -27.3%
Earnings per share 7.64p 6.80p +12.4%
Earnings per share
before exceptional items 8.82p 6.80p +29.7%
Dividend per share 6.80p 6.80p -
Net debt (26.0) (28.9) Reduced 10.0%
Gearing (restated) 62.8% 69.3% Reduced 9.4%
(a) Profit before tax up 9.6% on turnover increased by 6.9%;
(b) Profit before tax and exceptional items up almost 25% to
GBP8 million;
(c) Own shop like-for-like sales up 2.6% versus 0.9% last year;
(d) Cash flow remains strong; and
(e) Dividend unchanged at 6.80p representing yield of ca. 4.2%
and now covered.
Strategic Key Points:
(a) All main areas of the business growing;
(b) Margins improving and cost base being continually addressed;
(c) Further investments in the own-store estate and marketing
planned;
Commenting Christopher Burnett, Executive Chairman, said: "The
business achieved growth in profit before tax last year after
net exceptional charges of almost GBP1 million.
"Whilst more restructuring will take place in the new financial
year, we would still expect profits to improve again.
"We will be in a better position to indicate by how much after
our main selling season at Christmas.
"Sales in the first few weeks of the new financial year have
been encouraging, albeit in comparison with a weak trading
performance at the beginning of last year."
A full copy of the company's report is available free of charge
at http://bankrupt.com/misc/thorntons_2004.pdf.
CONTACT: THORNTONS PLC
Christopher Burnett
Executive Chairman
Phone: 01773 540550
Peter Burdon Chief Executive
Phone: 01773 540550
Martin Allen
Finance Director
Phone: 01773 540550
BUCHANAN COMMUNICATIONS
Charles Ryland/Catherine Miles
Phone: 020 7466 5000
URBANROSE LTD.: Creditors to Meet September 17
----------------------------------------------
IN THE MATTER OF THE INSOLVENCY ACT 1986
and
IN THE MATTER OF Urbanrose Ltd.
Notice is hereby given, pursuant to section 98 of the Insolvency
Act 1986, that a meeting of Creditors of Urbanrose Ltd. will be
held at White House Business Centre Forest Road Bristol BS15 8NH
on September 14, 2004 at 11:00 a.m. for the purpose of having a
full statement of the position of the Company's affairs,
together with a list of the Creditors of the Company and the
estimated amount of their claims, laid before them, and for the
purpose, if thought fit, of nominating a Liquidator and of
appointing a Liquidation Committee. (Sections 99-101 of the said
Act)
A Form of Proxy, if intended to be used by creditors wishing to
vote at the Meeting, must be duly completed and accompanied by
their statement of claim, and must be lodged at White House
Business Centre Forest Road Bristol BS15 8NH not later than
12:00 noon on the business day before the Meeting.
Notice is also given, for the purpose of voting, that secured
Creditors must (unless they surrender their security) lodge at
White House Business Centre Forest Road Bristol BS15 8NH before
the Meeting, a statement giving particulars of their security,
the date when it was given, and the value at which it is
assessed.
In accordance with section 98 (2) Insolvency Act 1986, a list of
Creditors' names and addresses will be available for inspection,
free of charge, at J.W. Lewis & Co. White House Business Centre
Forest Road Bristol BS15 8NH two business days prior to the
meeting.
By Order of the Board.
H. Singh, Director
August 24, 2004
CONTACT: J.W. LEWIS CO.
17316 Edwards Road
Suite 135
Cerritos, CA 90703
Phone: (562) 926-8585
Fax: (562) 926-9795
E-mail: info@jwlewisco.com
Web site: http://www.jwlewisco.com
W G ALLEN: Names Joint Liquidators from Deloitte & Touche
---------------------------------------------------------
At an extraordinary general meeting of the W G Allen & Son
(Harrogate) Limited on August 26, 2004 held at 1 City Square,
Leeds LS1 2AL, the special and ordinary resolutions to wind up
the company were passed. Angus Matthew Martin and Ian Brown of
Deloitte & Touche, 1 City Square, Leeds, West Yorkshire LS1 2AL
have been appointed joint liquidators of the company.
CONTACT: DELOITTE & TOUCHE
1 City Square, Leeds,
West Yorkshire LS1 2AL
Joint Liquidators:
Angus Matthew Martin
Ian Brown
Phone: +44 (0) 113 243 9021
Fax: +44 (0) 113 244 5580
Web site: http://www.deloitte.com
WIMCO GROUP: Hires Joint Administrators from UHY Hacker Young
-------------------------------------------------------------
Andrew Andronikou and Ladislav Hornan have been appointed joint
administrators for Wimco Group Coaches Limited. The appointment
was made August 27, 2004.
The company is engaged in other passenger land transport. Its
registered office is located at 223 Streatham Road, Mitcham,
Surrey CR4 2AJ.
CONTACT: UHY HACKER YOUNG
St Alphage House,
2 Fore Street,
London EC2Y 5DH
Joint Administrators:
Andrew Andronikou
Ladislav Hornan
(IP Nos 1253, 2059)
Phone: 020 7216 4600
Fax: 020 7638 2159
Web site: http://www.uhy-uk.com
W M ENGINEERING: Names DTE Leonard Curtis Administrator
-------------------------------------------------------
A Poxon and J M Titley have been appointed joint administrators
for W M Engineering Limited. The appointment was made August
23, 2004. The company is engaged in business and management
consultancy.
CONTACT: DTE LEONARD CURTIS
DTE House
Hollins Mount
Bury BL9 8AT
Joint Administrators:
J M Titley
A Poxon
(IP Nos 8620, 8617)
Phone: 0161 767 1200
Fax: 0161 767 1201
Web site: http://www.dtegroup.com
*********
S U B S C R I P T I O N I N F O R M A T I O N
Troubled Company Reporter -- Europe is a daily newsletter
co-published by Bankruptcy Creditors' Service, Inc., Fairless
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Maryland USA. Larri-Nil Veloso, Ma. Cristina Canson,
Liv Arcipe, and Julybien Atadero, Editors.
Copyright 2004. All rights reserved. ISSN 1529-2754.
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