A prominent figure in the retail industry, Paul brings substantial UK and international retail and private equity experience. His extensive track record over the past 30 years includes his roles as CEO of Somerfield, Matalan and Asda, and European President and Head of Global Retail at Levi Strauss.

As well as running retail businesses in the UK, Paul also has substantial international experience, gained from his time at Levi Strauss where he restructured the European business and grew the company's US operations through further store openings. 

Steve Parkin, CEO of Mayborn, commented:  "We are delighted that Paul is joining Mayborn. His extensive experience of the retail sector will enable us to further build our partnerships with key UK retailers and his insight and advice will be invaluable as we continue to grow Mayborn, both in the UK and internationally."

Paul Mason, commented: "I am excited to be joining Mayborn as Chairman. The company holds a market leading position in the UK, as demonstrated by the fact that Tommee Tippee has been voted one of the UK's Superbrands for the last two years running. Mayborn is also successfully expanding internationally, most recently into the US. I look forward to working with Steve and the management team to support the company in continuing to grow its business."

• Total revenue up 21% to £87million, continuing the Group#s track record over the past ten years of a compound annual growth rate of more than 30%
• Organic revenue up 18%
• EBITDA (excluding non-recurring and acquisition costs) up 45% to £18 million

2011 Operational Highlights

• Hyperion completed the acquisition of Accette Insurance Group in Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Thailand and The Philippines
• Hyperion acquired the broking activity of Davidoff Insurance Brokers in Israel, allowing Howden to provide clients with a broader range of product solutions, and making our already strong operation one of the top five non-life insurance brokers in Israel
• Hyperion acquired the broking activity of PYV Ltd in the UK, making Howden Insurance Brokers one of the leading providers of Professional Indemnity solutions to Independent Financial Advisors, and bringing a Solicitors Professional Indemnity capability to the team
• DUAL launched Tamesis DUAL, specialty excess of loss reinsurance business supported with capacity from Lloyd's of London
• DUAL opened an office in Auckland, New Zealand
• Howden Specialty Underwriters, Miami opened for business
• Hyperion was listed in the top 20 in the Insurance Times annual Top 50 Brokers published in September 2011, and reached 5th position in the Post Magazine's Top 25 EC3 Brokers published in October 2011. Howden Broking Group was named Insurance Broker of the Year at the British Insurance Awards.

Commenting on the Group's results, David Howden, CEO of Hyperion, said:

"To achieve 18% organic growth is a reflection of the success of our strategy, our diversified business model and our ability to attract the very best people. Following the achievement of all our strategic objectives in 2011 we are well placed to take advantage of market opportunities around the world and deliver another outstanding year of growth in 2012."

LNI Verkko Oy is the second largest electricity distribution network in Finland. Headquartered in Tampere, it serves around 400,000 customers in South West Finland, and has a 12% market share.

LNI Lämpö Oy operates a broad-based district heating and gas business in Finland.

LNI looks forward to working with the management teams and the employees of the two businesses to develop the network infrastructure, enhance security of supply, and promote outstanding customer service and satisfaction.

Contacts:

3i
Silvia Santoro
+44 20 7975 3258
silvia.santoro@3i.com

GS Infrastructure Partners
Joanna Carss
+44 20 7774 4102
Joanna.carss@gs.com

Ilmarinen Mutual Pension Insurance Company
Esko Torsti
+358 10 284 3945
 

Notes to Editors

About LNI Acquisition Oy
LNI Acquisition Oy is a consortium comprising 3i Infrastructure plc and 3i Group plc (45% share), GS Infrastructure Partners (45% share) and Ilmarinen Mutual Pension Insurance Company (10% share). 3i Infrastructure plc and 3i Group plc are investing through 3i Networks Finland LP, a partnership in which they have taken 87% and 13% stakes respectively.

About 3i Infrastructure plc
3i Infrastructure plc is a Jersey-incorporated, closed-ended investment company that invests in infrastructure businesses and assets and is regulated by the Jersey Financial Services Commission. The Company is building a diversified portfolio of infrastructure investments across the globe, with a focus on Europe and India. As of 30 September 2011, 3i Infrastructure had a portfolio of 15 assets valued at £716 million, and net assets of £1,030 million. The Company listed on the London Stock Exchange in March 2007, raising £703 million in an initial public offering and a further £115 million in a subsequent placing and open offer in July 2008, and is a constituent of the FTSE 250 index.

3i Investments plc, a wholly-owned subsidiary of 3i Group plc, is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Services Authority and acts as Investment Adviser to 3i Infrastructure plc.

For more information, please visit www.3i-infrastructure.com.

About 3i Group plc
3i is an international investor focused on private equity, infrastructure and debt management, investing across Europe, Asia and the Americas.

For more information, please visit www.3i.com.

About GS Infrastructure Partners
Goldman Sachs is a leading global investment banking, securities and investment management firm. Founded in 1869, the firm is headquartered in New York and maintains offices in other major financial centers around the world. Goldman Sachs is one of the largest infrastructure fund managers globally, having raised over $10 billion of capital since the inception of the business in 2006. The GS Infrastructure Partners funds are the firm's primary vehicle to make direct investments in infrastructure assets and companies. The primary focus of the funds is on investment opportunities in the transportation and utilities sectors.

For more information, please visit www.gs.com.

About Ilmarinen Mutual Pension Insurance Company
As an authorized pension insurance company, Ilmarinen's mission is to safeguard the statutory pension provision of those employees and self-employed persons it insures and to manage the investment assets that cover future pensions. Ilmarinen is owned by its policyholders. With investment assets totalling €27.1 billion (as of 30 September 2011), Ilmarinen is among the largest pension funds in Europe and the largest private investor on the Helsinki Stock Exchange. Ilmarinen invests in various asset classes, including shares, bonds, real estate, private equity and hedge funds.

Since 2009, the company has acquired majority stakes in cable TV companies, becoming the largest independent cable provider in Brazil with operations in 14 cities and 9 Brazilian states. Marcelo, Silvia and Sérgio are successful Brazilian entrepreneurs and pioneers in the Brazilian internet market. From 2009 to 2011, both Blue's subscriber base and margins have more than doubled.

Going forward, Blue plans to continue to grow its penetration levels in the cities in which it currently operates as well as expand its network into other mid-sized cities where cable TV is unavailable. Blue will also look to grow through acquisition, where attractive.

Both the cable TV and broadband markets have been growing at attractive rates in recent years, posting annual average growth rates of 19% and 34% respectively between 2005 and 2010.  These markets are expected to continue to show strong growth over the next 5 years. Factors behind this continued growth include low penetration levels in Brazil compared to other markets, regulatory changes which enable greenfield opportunities to be pursued in mid-size cities where cable TV is not currently available and a growing, affluent middle class. 

3i will help the company achieve its growth plans, not only by providing capital but also through applying its expertise in the telecommunications sector and its substantial M&A experience, which is critical in a sector where scale is a differentiating factor.

Through its Business Leader Network, 3i has introduced Richard Alden as chairman. Richard brings considerable experience from his time as CEO of ONO, a leading cable operator in Spain with approximately 2 million clients and revenues in excess of US$1.7 billion.

Silvia de Jesus, CEO of Blue, said: "We are delighted to welcome 3i as a shareholder. 3i has extensive experience of working in partnership with management teams and supporting the growth of leading companies. These strengths will enable us to continue our ambitious growth strategy". 

Marcelo Di Lorenzo, Partner, Managing Director and Head of 3i Brazil, commented: "Blue has performed well in recent years. The Brazilian cable TV and broadband market is undergoing significant change and we feel that Blue is well placed to take advantage of this new environment and further expand its offering across the country. We look forward to working with the management team to continue the company's growth, both organically and by acquisition." 

For further information, please contact:

Marcelo Di Lorenzo, Managing Director, 3i Brazil - Tel: +55 11 2050 5633
Silvia de Jesus, CEO, Blue Interactive Group - Tel: +55 51 2136 3501
Anthony Dovkants, FTI Consulting - Tel: +55 11 3079 4535
Laurie Yeh, PR Executive - Tel: +44 20 7975 3126

About 3i
3i is an international investor focused on Private Equity, Infrastructure and Debt Management, investing across Europe, Asia and the Americas. Our competitive advantage comes from our international network and the strength and breadth of our business relationships.  These underpin the value that we deliver to our portfolio, shareholders and fund investors.

www.3i.com

About Blue
Blue Interactive Group was formed in 2009 by a group of senior executives from the technology and telecommunications sector to serve as an acquisition platform in the rapidly growing pay TV and broadband market in Brazil.  Blue is currently present in 9 Brazilian states and 14 cities. Led by experienced executives in the sector, Blue seeks to continue to grow both organically and through acquisition.

www.blueinteractive.com.br

Networks Finland is the second largest electricity distribution network in Finland. Headquartered in Tampere, it serves around 400,000 customers in South West Finland, and has a 12% market share.

Heat Finland operates a broad-based district heating and gas business in Finland.

"The transaction represents a significant addition to 3i Infrastructure's portfolio" said Neil King, Partner in the Infrastructure team at 3i Investments plc. "Both businesses have strong infrastructure characteristics, providing exposure to relatively low risk, reliable revenue streams and good inflation linkage."

"Networks Finland operates one of the most efficient electricity distribution networks in the country, and has a strong track record of delivering network development and technical innovation", added Philippe Camu, European head of infrastructure investing at Goldman Sachs. "As such, it is well positioned to grow in what is still a relatively fragmented electricity distribution market in Finland."

"We are delighted to be investing in these businesses" said Esko Torsti, Head of Non-Listed Investments at Ilmarinen Mutual Pension Insurance Company. "The two companies are led by very experienced and capable management teams, and, as a consortium, we look forward to working with them for the success of the investment over the long term."

The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2012.

Contacts:

3i
Silvia Santoro
+44 20 7975 3258
silvia.santoro@3i.com

GS Infrastructure Partners
Joanna Carss
+44 207 774 4102
Joanna.carss@gs.com

Ilmarinen Mutual Pension Insurance Company
Esko Torsti
+358 10 284 3945

Notes to Editors

About LNI Acquisition Oy
LNI Acquisition Oy is a consortium comprising 3i Infrastructure plc and 3i Group plc (45% share), GS Infrastructure Partners (45% share) and Ilmarinen Mutual Pension Insurance Company (10% share). 3i Infrastructure plc and 3i Group plc are investing through 3i Networks Finland LP, a partnership in which they have taken 87% and 13% stakes respectively.

About 3i Infrastructure plc
3i Infrastructure plc is a Jersey-incorporated, closed-ended investment company that invests in infrastructure businesses and assets and is regulated by the Jersey Financial Services Commission. The Company is building a diversified portfolio of infrastructure investments across the globe, with a focus on Europe and India. As of 30 September 2011, 3i Infrastructure had a portfolio of 15 assets valued at £716 million, and net assets of £1,030 million. The Company listed on the London Stock Exchange in March 2007, raising £703 million in an initial public offering and a further £115 million in a subsequent placing and open offer in July 2008, and is a constituent of the FTSE 250 index.

3i Investments plc, a wholly-owned subsidiary of 3i Group plc, is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Services Authority and acts as Investment Adviser to 3i Infrastructure plc.

For more information, please visit www.3i-infrastructure.com.

About 3i Group plc
3i is an international investor focused on private equity, infrastructure and debt management, investing across Europe, Asia and the Americas.

For more information, please visit www.3i.com.

About GS Infrastructure Partners
Goldman Sachs is a leading global investment banking, securities and investment management firm. Founded in 1869, the firm is headquartered in New York and maintains offices in other major financial centers around the world. Goldman Sachs is one of the largest infrastructure fund managers globally, having raised over $10 billion of capital since the inception of the business in 2006. The GS Infrastructure Partners funds are the firm's primary vehicle to make direct investments in infrastructure assets and companies. The primary focus of the funds is on investment opportunities in the transportation and utilities sectors.

For more information, please visit www.gs.com.

About Ilmarinen Mutual Pension Insurance Company
As an authorized pension insurance company, Ilmarinen's mission is to safeguard the statutory pension provision of those employees and self-employed persons it insures and to manage the investment assets that cover future pensions. Ilmarinen is owned by its policyholders. With investment assets totalling €27.1 billion (as of 30 September 2011), Ilmarinen is among the largest pension funds in Europe and the largest private investor on the Helsinki Stock Exchange. Ilmarinen invests in various asset classes, including shares, bonds, real estate, private equity and hedge funds.

Today's commitment follows investments by 3i in Bridges' previous 2 funds. These funds have invested over £75m in 34 companies which focus on achieving significant social impact in underserved areas in Education & Skills, in Environment and in Health & Well-being.  

Patrick Dunne, 3i Group Communications Director, commented: "We are delighted to be investing in another Bridges fund. Bridges Ventures has a proven model which they have successfully scaled. It is also especially pertinent at a time like this to be investing in something which not only delivers good financial returns but also achieves such significant social impacts."

In June 2011, 3i Benelux took a majority stake in Action, the Dutch retailer, to support the company's international growth.

Marcelo Di Lorenzo, Partner, Managing Director and Head of 3i Brazil commented: "We are very pleased with today's appointments.  All of our Advisory Board members bring with them fantastic expertise and strong relationships that will add significant value to our team. These appointments demonstrate 3i's commitment to Brazil and our intention to become a leading private equity player in the region over the medium term."

Marcelo Silva brings a wealth of retail experience as well as insight into family-owned Brazilian organisations. Marcelo is currently the CEO of Magazine Luiza, one of the largest electronic and furniture retail chains in Brazil. Prior to this role, Marcelo held senior positions at a number of other retailers, including Bompreço, the leading retailer in the Northeast of the country later acquired by Walmart; G Barbosa, a leading food retailer in the same region; and Casas Pernambucanas, a leading general merchandise retailer in Brazil.

Reginaldo Zero has a lot of experience in the financial services and consumer related industries, gained from his time as CFO of American Express in Brazil and Latin America, CEO of Visanet (today Cielo, the leading Brazilian merchant acquiring and payment processing company). Reginaldo is currently CEO of FPS in Brazil, a joint venture between Bradesco, a leading Brazilian bank, and FIS, the world's largest global provider dedicated to banking and payments technologies.

Winston Fritsch has extensive experience in the financial services industry. Winston is currently a senior partner at Orienta Investimentos, a Brazilian financial advisory firm. Prior to this role, Winston was Head of Lehman's Investment Banking division in Brazil. Winston has also worked at Rio Bravo Investimentos and Dresdner Kleinwort Wasserstein. During the design and implementation of the Real Stabilisation Plan, Winston acted as Secretary of Economic Policy of the Brazilian Ministry of Finance.

For further information, please contact:

Marcelo Di Lorenzo, Managing Director 3i Brazil 
Tel: +55 11 2050 5633

Anthony Dovkants, FTI Consulting
Tel: +55 11 3079 4535

Kathryn van der Kroft, 3i PR Director
Tel: +44 20 7975 3021

Notes to editors

About 3i
3i is an international investor focused on Private Equity, Infrastructure and Debt Management, investing across Europe, Asia and the Americas. Our competitive advantage comes from our international network and the strength and breadth of our business relationships.  These underpin the value that we deliver to our portfolio, shareholders and fund investors.

www.3i.com

Results highlights  

	Year ended 26 March 2011 £'000	Year ended 27 March 2010 £'000
Sales	26,682	24,696
EBITDA	3,301	1,234

Current trading for 5 months to 27th August 2011

• Current trading strong with total turnover up 30% on previous year, and LFL retail sales up 11%. Online channel continues to grow strongly with sales up 58% on the previous year
• Currently trading in 55 outlets worldwide, with new stores opened in Moscow and Beirut since March 2011
• New boutiques in Miami, Rome, Amsterdam, Madrid and Lausanne on track to open before March 2012
• Further stores planned to open next year in UK, Europe, US and Far East
• New bedding range launched September 2011
• In April 2011 Agent Provocateur announced the appointment of Chris Woodhouse as non-executive chairman

Financial Results to 26th March 2011

Full year results:

• Turnover increased from £24.7m to £26.7m, an increase of 8% year-on-year
• Strong performance from retail stores with LFL sales up 5% on previous year
• EBITDA grew from £1.2m to £3.3m, an increase of 167% (2.7x) on previous year
• New boutiques opened in Madison Avenue in New York, Rodeo Drive in Los Angeles, Prague, Seoul, Athens, Barbados and Manchester
• As well as the full range on Agent Provocateur's own website, a capsule range is available on net-a-porter

Garry Hogarth, Chief Executive, commented

"Agent Provocateur has delivered record profits in a challenging retail environment. We are in a strong financial position to develop and expand the business following the success of our investment programme over the last year. Our new stores are performing strongly and we have a number of new openings in the pipeline. We remain confident in our strategy and will continue to invest in growing our business. The focus will now be on increasing the awareness of our brand and availability of all our collections."

Notes to Editors:

The portfolio comprises 55 outlets located in the UK, France, Germany, Spain, Italy, Sweden, Denmark, Austria, Switzerland, Czech Republic, Slovenia, Russia, Greece Turkey, Dubai, Bahrain, Qatar, Lebanon, Hong Kong, Korea, USA and Barbados. The outlets include 33 own stores/concessions and 21 franchise outlets.

The Group has embarked on a major store and franchise roll-out programme and continues to develop its e-commerce business, centred on its iconic website www.agentprovocateur.com

For further information, please contact:

Ginta Gelvan, Agent Provocateur
Tel: +44 207 923 5200

The COF, seeded by 3i Group with €50m, will form the foundation of a new fund initiative by 3iDM, targeting flexible investment in credit (loans, bonds and floating rate notes), primarily in Europe. The fund will be open to other investors at a later date.

The COF will build on 3iDM's highly successful debut debt fund launched in October 2007 and exited in March 2011. The 2007 fund invested primarily in Senior and Junior secured loans and delivered an IRR of 13.6%, and a cash to cash profit of 1.4x, representing a top performing return for a fund of its vintage.

Jeremy Ghose, Managing Partner and CEO of 3iDM commented: "The COF is key to 3iDM's strategy of new product development, allied to meeting the needs of our investors. We welcome Rob to the team and value highly the track record and experience he brings."

3iDM is the credit platform of 3i Group and has ca. €4.2bn of AUM across 5 CLOs, managed accounts, a mezzanine fund and private equity fund of funds.

Since IK acquired Etanco in 2008 in partnership with Ronan Lebraut from his family, IK has implemented a number of successful strategic initiatives to strengthen the company's market position such as expanding its product offering, stream-lining operations to improve efficiency, and increasing the sales force. This has allowed the group to experience impressive and continued growth in sales and profitability throughout the financial crisis.  The company has significantly outperformed the market, demonstrating both the resilience and growth potential of the company and its business model.

3i's investment in Etanco provides a platform from to accelerate the company's growth and strengthen its market position, through consolidation of the market as well as developing new product ranges and increasing its customer base.  3i has extensive experience investing in the industrial sector and its global network will enhance Etanco's ability to access new geographies.

Christopher Masek, Managing Partner, IK, said: "The investment decision was made in the challenging market of 2008. Our strong understanding of the company's dynamics as well as the extremely high potential and quality of the management team proved this to be the right decision. Under the mandate of IK and the management of Ronan Lebraut, the Group significantly outperformed the market every year confirming the resilience, the growth potential of the company and the validity of its business model. This is a classic investment for us and demonstrates our approach to working with a family business by improving its foundations and transforming it into a solid national leader with the potential for further growth."

Ronan Lebraut, CEO, Etanco said: "With IK's positive support, Etanco has grown significantly organically, allowing us to reinforce our leadership position in France and to improve our financial performance. We look forward to continuing our successful evolution by taking on a new stage of international development through a buy-and-build strategy for which we believe we are well poised with 3i."

Remi Carnimolla, 3i Partner commented: "We have known Etanco, Ronan Lebraut and his team for over 3 years; we are pleased to be working in partnership with them to deliver our common ambition of internationalising the Group to transform it into a pan-European champion. 3i has extensive experience and a strong track record in helping leading companies expand across geographies and we are well placed to support Etanco's international expansion strategy." 

This transaction is subject to customary conditions including anti-trust approval.

Notes to Editors:

About IK Investment Partners
IK Investment Partners ("IK") is a European private equity firm, having raised a total of EUR 5.7 billion, including EUR 1.7 billion in the latest fund IK2007. Since 1989, IK has acquired 77 European companies. The current portfolio encompasses 23 companies with a total turnover close to EUR 7.5 billion. IK invests mainly in mid-sized companies with strong cash flow and profit improvement potential, operating in established industries with fundamental underlying growth. For more information visit our website: www.ikinvest.com

About 3i
3i is an international investor focused on Private Equity, Infrastructure and Debt Management, investing in Europe, Asia and the Americas. Our competitive advantage comes from our international network and the strength and breadth of our business relationships.  These underpin the value that we deliver to our portfolio, shareholders and fund investors.  www.3i.com

About Etanco
Headquartered near Paris with 600 employees. Etanco is the leading designer, manufacturer and distributor of building fasteners and fixing systems in France. The company also has a strong presence in Belgium, Italy and Eastern Europe through its subsidiary Friulsider. Etanco provides a full range of 45,000 products grouped under four categories: waterproofing, roofing, safety and facades. www.etanco.fr

Founded in 1998, TouchTunes is the world's largest digital interactive out-of-home entertainment network with 50,000 digital jukeboxes located in restaurant and bar establishments across North America.  The company has recently unveiled its award-winning premier Digital Smart Jukebox, Virtuo, a first-of-its-kind system that breaks through the digital entertainment category with advanced music, technology and advertising capabilities.  TouchTunes holds an unmatched presence in the bar and restaurant arena, reaching and engaging the coveted, tech-savvy 21-35 age demographic.  Headquartered in New York City, TouchTunes also has offices in Chicago and Montreal, Canada.

3i joins VantagePoint Capital Partners and the TouchTunes management team, led by CEO Charles Goldstuck, to help fuel the company's growth strategy.  TouchTunes remains focused on expanding the existing base of digital jukeboxes across North America and launching new products and services to broaden its in-venue entertainment capabilities.  3i's investment and experience will enable the company to expand into Asia and Europe.

"3i is a natural partner for TouchTunes, especially with its broad global reach," said Goldstuck.  "I have known 3i's North American leadership for a long time and have always been impressed with the firm's global resources and experience in the Technology, Media & Telecom sector."

Ken Hanau, Managing Partner of 3i North America, commented: "TouchTunes has experienced significant growth over the last few years, and we look forward to helping the management team to grow the business globally, expanding on its market-leading position.  Employing our geographic footprint and global network, we are confident we can foster the company's next phase of development."

GCA Savvian Advisors acted as exclusive financial advisor in connection with this transaction.

For further information, contact:
TouchTunes Interactive Networks, Liz Anklow, DKC Public Relations Tel: 212-981-5103
3i, Laurie Yeh         Tel: +44 20 7975 3126
VantagePoint Capital Partners, Gene Gable     Tel: 650-624-1596

Notes to editors:

About TouchTunes Interactive Networks
TouchTunes Interactive Networks is the largest interactive out-of-home entertainment network in North America. TouchTunes provides entertainment and marketing solutions to 50,000 bars and restaurants.  Since TouchTunes introduced the world's first digital downloading, pay-per-play jukebox, the network has become the largest of its kind with close to 2 million songs played, on average, across the network every day.  TouchTunes has a growing music library of more than three million licensed tracks, and delivered more than 750 million songs in 2010 alone.  The company also provides TouchTunesTV, a unique, screen-within-a-screen interactive television experience provides custom advertising capabilities, venue promotions and social networking opportunities.  TouchTunes is a privately held U.S. corporation with offices in New York City, Arlington Heights, Illinois and Montreal, Canada.  For further information please visit us at:
http://www.touchtunes.com
http://www.mytouchtunes.com
http://www.facebook.com/touchtunes
http://twitter.com/touchtunes

About 3i
3i is an international investor focused on private equity, infrastructure and debt management, investing in Europe, Asia and the Americas. Our competitive advantage comes from our international network and the strength and breadth of our business relationships.  These underpin the value that we deliver to our portfolio, shareholders and fund investors. 
www.3i.com

The 2011 3i Private Business of the Year finalists are:

• A J Bell, Manchester - a leading provider of stockbroker services
• apetito, Trowbridge -  No.1 supplier of frozen meals to the social sector
• Bibby Line Group, Liverpool - diverse family group (shipping, logistics, retail, financing)
• Euro Car Parts, Wembley - leading supplier of car parts in the UK, to trade and retail
• Firmdale Hotels - luxury boutique hotel group
• Gleeds, London - leading global management and construction consultant
• Mark Group, Leicester - UK installer of 'whole house' energy saving products
• Mobile Interactive Group,  London - fast growing mobile telecoms technology business
• Stannah, Andover - the world's largest supplier of stairlifts
• Yeo Valley, Blagdon -award-winning family owned organic dairy products business

"The economic climate continues to present UK businesses with an unprecedented challenge:  it is therefore particularly encouraging that the entries in this year's National Business Awards have shown no drop in quality or performance. Congratulations to all finalists for demonstrating tremendous strength in their ability to adapt and innovate which no doubt reflects the resilience and optimism that are the hallmarks of UK enterprise", said Baroness Bottomley of Nettlestone, Chair of Judges, the National Business Awards.

The finalists will make their filmed interviews in person in September; these interviews will be judged by an independent, expert judging panel at the offices of Coutts & Co. The judges are:

• David Whileman, 3i Partner, UK Private Equity
• David Kilburn, CEO, MKM Building Supplies
• David Richards, CEO, SLR Consulting
• Tim Scott, Chairman/Founder, ENER-G
• Mike Tobin, CEO, TelecityGroup

The winners will be honoured at the National Business Awards gala dinner, organised by UBM plc, at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London on Tuesday 8th November, where George Osborne, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, will deliver this year's welcome address. Visit www.nationalbusinessawards.co.uk for a full list of all 2011 finalists.

- Ends -

Notes for editor:
Visit www.nationalbusinessawards.co.uk for a full list of all 2011 finalists.

About the National Business Awards
Open to organisations of all sizes from all sectors across the UK, the National Business Awards, in partnership with Orange, is the UK's most prestigious independent business recognition platform with its particular emphasis on excellence, innovation and ethical business.  Now in its tenth year, the National Business Awards connects the nations' professionals through its annual awards ceremony; year-round thought leadership and round table events; and is UBM plc's flagship awards programme. Visit www.nationalbusinessawards.co.uk for further information.

For further information please contact:
Henriette Svensen
Head of PR & Marketing
UBM Awards
Tel: 020 7234 8753 / 07500 917 628
Email: henriette.svensen@ubm.com

Based in Beijing, Paul will be focused on investment origination and execution and will report into Bob Stefanowski, Chairman 3i Asia and the Americas.  He brings extensive financial management and transaction experience gained in the US and China, having worked with a number of private and stated-owned enterprises across a broad range of sectors, including energy, consumer, healthcare, real estate, technology and industrial, and joins the company as it continues to further grow and develop its business in China.

Paul joins 3i following 10 years with Credit Suisse, based in Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Beijing, most recently as Managing Director and Vice-Chairman of Greater China, Investment Banking Department, where he was responsible for originating and executing transactions, as well as managing client relationships.  His previous positions at Credit Suisse include Co-Head of Greater China DIS (Diversified Industries and Services), Head of China Industrials and Head of China Energy in the Investment Banking Department.  Paul has a depth of transaction experience having originated and led many capital market, restructuring and M&A assignments for Chinese clients including China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), Shanghai Electric Group Co Ltd, E-House China Holdings Ltd, Chongqing Machinery, & Electric Co Ltd, China Real Estate Information Corp (CRIC), China Ming Yang Wind Power Group Ltd, TAL Education Group (Xueersi) and Shanghai Pharmaceuticals Holding Co. 

Bob Stefanowski, commented: "China will continue to be an important economy and offers exciting investment opportunities, particularly as its financial system gradually opens up to the world.  We continue to build on our strong track record in China and are pleased to have an executive of Paul's calibre join our team."

Paul Su commented: "3i has a strong brand globally and an excellent reputation in China. I am delighted to be joining the team at such an exciting time in its development.  The private equity market in China provides ample opportunity to invest in quality companies and I look forward to working with my Partners Albert Xu and Anna Cheung to build on 3i's success in China to date."

3i has had a presence in China since 2001 and currently has offices in Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong. 3i has a strong track record in China having invested in successful companies including DPhone, China's largest retailer of mobile phones and accessories; Focus Media, the Chinese market leader in LCD displays in commercial buildings and hypermarkets; PCD Stores, a Chinese department store group, which listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in December 2009; and Little Sheep, China's leading hotpot restaurant chain, which floated on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange in June 2008.

For further information, contact:
Kathryn van der Kroft, 3i Tel: +44 20 7975 3021

About 3i
3i is an international investor focused on Private Equity, Infrastructure and Debt Management, investing in Europe, Asia and the Americas. Our competitive advantage comes from our international network and the strength and breadth of our business relationships.  These underpin the value that we deliver to our portfolio, shareholders and fund investors. 
www.3i.com

Stork Intermes' reputation and philosophy are perfectly aligned with Trescal's objectives: offering technical excellence and one-stop-shop convenience wherever its customers are located.

The acquisition brings together complementary technical skills; Stork Intermes specialises in non-electrical (e.g. pressure and temperature) services, while Trescal's current offering focuses predominantly on electrical fields (e.g. high frequency, data / telecom and fibre optics).

This is Trescal's third acquisition (following DTI in the US and Antech Engineering in the UK) since 3i and TCR Capital invested in the company in September 2010, allowing Trescal's pro-forma turnover to increase by c30% in 2011.

Olivier Delrieu, President and CEO of Trescal, said, "We are very pleased SMT decided to trust Trescal for this acquisition; we are confident Stork Intermes' management team will help the group thrive and expand even more given their impressive track record."

Charles Noall, CEO of Stork Materials Technology, said, 'We feel that this transaction will bring an excellent future for the staff and customers of Stork Intermes and, subject to the advice of the Stork FDO Works Council, we expect the process to complete in August."

Remi Carnimolla, Partner 3i, commented, "We are enthusiastic about the potential of the new combined group. This is another illustration of how 3i can create value by actively implementing a buy-and-build strategy in order to build a group with a strong international reach."

David Robin partner at TCR added, "We are very satisfied with this acquisition, which confirms Trescal's market leadership in a more definitive manner. As shareholders, we have been happy to support the management and their vision of creating a "global leader." We plan to maintain our acquisition strategy going forward as opportunities become available."

About TCR www.tcrcapital.com
TCR Capital is an independent private equity partnership managing some €M 350 in capital, and  investing in market leading businesses with high-growth potential. The Funds managed by TCR have a clearly defined objective of investing in middle market buyout opportunities in France (companies with sales €M 20 - €M 200) where TCR can add value post-investment--particularly where there are build-up opportunities--and in corporate spin out situations.

About 3i www.3i.com
3i is an international investor focused on Private Equity, Infrastructure and Debt Management, investing in Europe, Asia and the Americas. Our competitive advantage derives from our international network and the strength and breadth of our business relationships.  These underpin the value that we deliver to our portfolio, our shareholders, and our fund investors.

About Trescal www.trescal.com
Worldwide leader in calibration, Trescal provides a broad range of services for the test and measuring equipment market. Trescal are represented in 14 countries: Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Romania, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Tunisia, United Kingdom, United States.

Supplementing the standard technical services (verification, calibration and repair of T&M instruments), Trescal offers their expertise for the implementation and acquisition of measurement systems, customised equipment pool management software solutions, metrology and technical support, and training.

Trescal operate in 59 calibration laboratories and employ over 1,500 people across Europe. Trescal serve 20,000+ customers in various sectors such as Defence, Aerospace, Aeronautics, Automotive, Power Generation & Utilities, Electronics Manufacturing, Communications, and Medical & Chemistry. In 2011, Trescal pro forma sales should reach €145 million.

About Stork Materials Technology http://www.storksmt.com
SMT is an established network of 26 independent material testing laboratories located across Europe and the United States. SMT teams support clients around the world--and from all industries--with precise materials testing and inspection to meet regulatory, quality, and industry specifications. SMT laboratories lead the industry in innovative, customized testing programs for all types of projects and processes--from early R&D stages to continuing quality maintenance in the market and beyond.

For further information, contact:

3i
Kathryn van der Kroft, Tel: +44 20 7975 3021 kathryn.vanderkroft@3i.com

TCR Capital
 David Robin, Tél : + 33 1 53 81 77 81 - drobin@tcrcapital.com

Trescal
Guillaume Caroit (General Secretary), Tel: +33 1 56 70 36 10 - guillaume.caroit@trescal.com
Catherine Bourdoncle (Communication Director), Tel: + 33 4 42 46 99 66 catherine.bourdoncle@trescal.com

Stork Materials Technology
Ari McKee-Sexton (Marketing Communication Manager) Tel: + 1 651 659 7327 ari.mckee@us.stork.com

Established in 1967, Loxam is a pioneer in rental equipment for the construction and civil engineering industries. The company currently has a turnover of more than €700million and employs nearly 4,000 people across 11 countries. By focussing its development on organic growth and strategic acquisitions in France and abroad, Loxam now has a total of 541 branches worldwide. Having grown steadily over the years, the company now as fleet of equipment totalling 200,000 items across 1,000 product types.

The investment by 3i and Pragma Capital will accelerate the company's growth strategy which includes:
o Further increasing Loxam's profile and presence across Europe thanks to the international network of its shareholders
o Ensuring the liquidity of Loxam's employee shareholder scheme
o Strengthening the equity of the company to facilitate potentially significant acquisitions 

Gérard Déprez, CEO of Loxam, commented: "We are delighted to welcome 3i and Pragma Capital into our group of shareholders. They have a proven track record working in partnership with entrepreneurs and management and will provide a powerful international network in Europe and worldwide. These strengths will enable us to continue our ambitious growth strategy".
 
Denis Ribon, Partner, 3i France, adds: "We have been in contact with Loxam for many years.  We were attracted by the company's resilience during the economic crisis and its strong potential for European growth. 3i has extensive experience in this sector, particularly through our previous investment in HSS in the UK. In addition, our international network overlaps with Loxam's geographic footprint. This is the fifth investment (3 minority and 2 majority transactions) by 3i's French team in the past 15 months."

Jean-Pierre Créange, CEO of Pragma Capital, commented: "We have been the first private equity firm to partner with Loxam to support the company through its outstanding development.   We are pleased to enter this new phase of growth."

For further information, contact:

3i
Kathryn van der Kroft, kathryn.vanderkroft@3i.com.  +44 20 7975 3021

Loxam
Patrick Bourmaud, patrick.bourmaud@loxam.com, +33 (0)1 58 44 04 00
Patrick Rizzo, patrick.rizzo@loxam.com, + 33 (0)1 58 44 04 00

Pragma Capital
Jean-Pierre Créange, jean-pierre.creange@pragma-capital.com,
+33 (0)1 58 36 49 60
Alexis Wibaux, alexis.wibaux@pragma-capital.com, +33 (0)1 58 36 49 50

Notes to editors

About Loxam
Formed in 1967, the Loxam Group is one of the pioneers in the rental of equipment for construction and industry professionals. Today, with a turnover of 702.5 million euros, 540 ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 certified branches and nearly 4,000 employees located across 11 countries, the Loxam Group is the number 1 in Europe in the equipment rental market. With a significant stock of more than 200,000 items of equipment, Loxam always knows how to anticipate, support and respond to the growing demand of companies when it comes to outsourcing the purchasing, management and maintenance of their supply of equipment.

About 3i (www.3i.com)
3i is an international investor focused on Private Equity, Infrastructure and Debt Management, investing across Europe, Asia and the Americas. Our competitive advantage comes from our international network and the strength and breadth of our business relationships.  These underpin the value that we deliver to our portfolio, shareholders and fund investors.. In France, 3i has recently invested in Labco (European network of medical laboratories), Vedici (network of private clinics), Trescal (measuring instruments) and WFCI (airline services).

About Pragma (www.pragmacapital.fr)
Pragma Capital is the manager of Pragma I and II, two mutual fund totaling 580 million euros. Funds managed by Pragma aim to hold a majority or aim to be a shareholder of quality companies, along with management teams. Pragma is active in the middle market in France. These companies are mainly French companies with high growth potential where the goal is to help managers of development projects. Pragma's investments have weathered the crisis well. The turnover of the seven portfolio companies of Pragma II, grew very significantly between 2008 and 2010, reflecting the talent of the management teams and the correct positioning of businesses financed by Pragma.

Action is one of the Netherlands' leading retailers, with a unique store format summed up in the slogan: "Surprisingly comprehensive, amazingly affordable." The Action brand name, formula, corporate culture and operational efficiency are key attractions of the business and will remain unchanged.

Since its establishment in 1993, Action has grown into a highly successful company, with more than 250 stores across the Benelux and Germany and more than 7,000 employees.

Building on its past success, Action aims to accelerate its growth in the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and other countries. This will require management expansion and significant investments. 3i's extensive European retail knowledge will prove of great value in enabling Action to realise its ambitions more quickly.

Ronald van der Mark will become Chairman of Action's Management Board. Van der Mark has extensive financial and operational retail experience. Previously he was a member of the Management Board of Maxeda. Action's Workers' Council and trade unions have been consulted in respect of this transaction, which will also be submitted for approval to the European competition authorities.

Action's founders welcome 3i as a new shareholder: "Action has significant growth opportunities in the Netherlands and abroad. We know the consumer demand is there. To seize these opportunities we now need to accelerate growth and 3i will help us in this respect. That is good news for our customers and our staff. It means more consumers will soon be able to experience what Action has to offer and that shopping can be more than just fun - it can also be surprising and cheap. At Action you can always find cool, new items that are excellent value too. That is and remains our goal."

Robert Van Goethem, 3i, Partner and Global Head of 3i Consumer Sector said, "We are very impressed with Action's past performance under the leadership of Action's founders. Thanks to them, the business has grown to become one of the leading retail formats in the Benelux. We look forward to working closely with the company to further develop and grow the business whilst maintaining its current entrepreneurial culture. We will help Action grow by opening new stores in the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. We are present in these and other markets, and will use our knowledge, experience and network in Europe and the rest of the world to support Action. 3i is very excited about this investment."

Ronald van der Mark: "Action operates an impressive retail formula with a highly affordable and surprising product range that always manages to exceed customers' expectations. I look forward to working with 3i and all Action staff, who have been responsible for the great success to date, and to helping further professionalise Action whilst accelerating growth in the Netherlands and abroad. Together we will be able to respond to opportunities and developments in the growing and consolidating European market."

Note to editors:
This is a joint press release from Action and 3i.
Action Press Contact: Charles Huijskens, + 31 20 - 6 855 955 or + 31 6 - 53 10 50 72
3i Press Contact: Kathryn van der Kroft, +44 20 7975 3021

About Action
Action, with more than 250 retail stores in the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany operates under the slogan, "Surprisingly comprehensive, amazingly affordable". Its headquarters and distribution centre are located in Zwaagdijk-Oost (North Holland). Action was founded in 1993. Its wide and varied product range includes household and office supplies, cosmetics, food, toys, textiles, glass, porcelain and pottery, seasonal, decorative and DIY. Action offers between 100 and 150 new items every week. Large-scale procurement, optimal distribution and a cost-conscious corporate culture ensure low customer prices.

By combining a sophisticated approach to its product range with low prices, Action has created a strong bond with consumers. Fun, good prices and quality ensure that many consumers shop at Action several times a week. In terms of logistics, the formula works like a supermarket chain, with daily distribution from the warehouse to the store.

See also: www.action.nl

About 3i
3i is an international investor focused on Private Equity, Infrastructure and Debt Management, investing across Europe, Asia and the Americas. Our competitive advantage comes from our international network and the strength and breadth of our business relationships. These underpin the value that we deliver to our portfolio, shareholders and fund investors. The long history of 3i in the Netherlands and Belgium is underlined by the presence of our office in Amsterdam. In recent years, 3i has invested more than €1billion in a wide range of companies in the Benelux.

See also: www.3i.com

Headquartered in Helsinki, Finland, KemFine is a custom manufacturer of fine chemicals with a focus on intermediates and active ingredients mainly for the agrochemicals market.  The company has long-term relationships and supply agreements with leading agrochemical companies.  KemFine generated annual revenues of EUR81m in 2010 and employs approximately 190 staff in Helsinki and its production site in Kokkola, Finland.

3i and funds originally invested in KemFine (formerly Kemira Fine Chemicals) in September 2004.  During 3i's investment period, KemFine has strengthened its customer relationships through new contract wins with key customers, increased its revenue by 80% and more than doubled its profit.  Moreover, the Kokkola production unit has continuously invested in its asset base and most recently in an environmentally friendly waste water treatment facility to improve KemFine's cost position. 

Fredrik Karlsson, Partner 3i, commented: "Over the last seven years, 3i has worked very closely with the KemFine management team to support the company's successful journey to becoming an independent and leading fine chemicals business."

Ulf Björkqvist, KemFine Chief Executive commented: "3i's investment has enabled our business to establish a leading position in the market and create a well-diversified product portfolio.  As we move into the next stage of our development with CABB, we will be focused on working in partnership to grow our joint business and sharing our combined customer and supplier base.  This is a logical step for KemFine to further expand its field of expertise."

Dr. Martin Wienkenhöver, CABB Chief Executive commented: "KemFine is absolutely the right partner to help us grow and develop the business.   This acquisition will further strengthen our leading market position, particularly in the area of custom manufacturing and tolling for the European and global life science majors.   The combination of KemFine and CABB will ensure even greater service for our customers."    

For further information, contact:

Fredrik Karlsson, 3i Nordic Tel: +46 8 506 101 54
Tomas Ekman , 3i Nordic Tel: +46 8 506 101 33
Ulf Björkqvist , KemFine Tel: + 358 46 8760 500
Kathryn van der Kroft, 3i Tel: +44 20 7975 3021
Robert Dahinden, CABB AG Tel: +41 61 825 35 74

It is also the second acquisition since 3i invested in Trescal in September 2010. In January 2011, Trescal announced the acquisition of Dynamic Technologies Inc., allowing the group to enter the US market. In total, 10 acquisitions have been made by the company since 2007.

"This acquisition consolidates our leading position in United-Kingdom and reinforces our "one-stop-shop" offer in calibration services for test and measurement equipment. This enables Trescal to broaden our skills to better serve the chemical, oil and pharmaceutical industries," says Fiona Horrocks, General Manager Trescal Ltd.

Remi Carnimolla, 3i Partner, commented: "This is another example of 3i's ability to accelerate growth and create leading international businesses. 3i has extensive experience investing in the business services sector and a strong understanding of Trescal's target markets. We are committed to working with Trescal and its management team to further grow and develop the business through strategic acquisitions.  After acquiring DTI, which opened the doors of the U.S. market, the acquisition of Antech is a significant step into the UK and will enhance Trescal's market leading position."

With this new acquisition, Trescal offers a wide range of calibration services through an unequalled worldwide network that reaches over 57 calibration laboratories.

About Trescal (www.trescal.com)
Trescal, international specialist in calibration provides a broad range of services for the test and measuring equipment market.
Trescal are represented in 13 countries: Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, the Netherlands, United Kingdom, United States, Romania and Tunisia.

Supplementing the standard technical services (verification, calibration and repair of T&M instruments), Trescal offer their expertise for the implementation and acquisition of measurement systems, customised equipment pool management software solutions, metrology and technical support, and training.

Trescal operate in 57 calibration laboratories and employ over 1,400 people across the world. Trescal service 20,000 customers in various sectors such as Defence, Aerospace, Aeronautics, Automotive, Power Generation & Utilities, Electronics Manufacturing, Communications and Medical & Chemistry. Including the acquisition of Antech Engineering Ltd., Trescal's pro forma sales for 2011 will amount to 132 million euros.

About 3i (www.3i.com)
3i is an international investor focused on Private Equity, Infrastructure and Debt Management, investing across Europe, Asia and the Americas. Our competitive advantage comes from our international network and the strength and breadth of our business relationships.  These underpin the value that we deliver to our portfolio, shareholders and fund investors.

Contacts:

Trescal
Guillaume Caroit (General Secretary), guillaume.caroit@trescal.com, +33 (0)1 56 70 36 10 
Catherine Bourdoncle (Communications Director), catherine.bourdoncle@trescal.com, +33 (0)4 42 46 99 66
Fiona Horrocks (General Manager Trescal Ltd), fiona.horrocks@trescal.com, + 44 (0) 1252 53 33 01

3i invested in Alo in December 2002. Over the last 8 years, 3i has, together with the management team and Balticgruppen, successfully built a global market-leading manufacturer of front-end loaders and equipment with strong revenue.  In 2011, Ålö is expected to turnover approximately 2 billion SEK (€220m), which represents sales growth of 8% per year since the original investment; margins exceed 15%. Currently, Ålö has 25% of the world market for its products and is expected to sell a total of 34,000 loaders in 40 countries this year.

Through a comprehensive, strategic investment programme, Ålö has developed into a global market leader. The strategic investments have focused on both automated production and a new and broader product offering. Alo's new owners and the management team will continue to invest in the company, in Umeå and across Sweden, to further develop the staff and skills that are already in place.

Ålö Managing Director, Olle Pehrsson, comments: "Through its long-term planning and sector knowledge, 3i has provided valuable support in our development over the past eight years. We are now happy to have Altor as a new owner in order to help us in the next phase of our growth. We are well-positioned to further strengthen our position in the market."

Ålö Chairman, Stelio Demark, comments: "3i's financial strength and its international network have been vital to the comprehensive efficiency and internationalisation programmes we have undertaken in recent years."

Lars Erik Blom, Director 3i Nordic comments: "We are very pleased with Ålö's development during our investment period. We have worked closely with the board and with the management team, especially with regard to strategic considerations and decisions."

Advisers include SEB Enskilda, Mannheimer & Swartling and KPMG. The deal is subject to approval of the relevant competition authorities.

-ENDS-

For more information, please contact:
Tomas Ekman, MD 3i Nordic
Tel: +46 8 506 101 33 
        +46 73 097 00 55

Lars Erik Blom, Director 3i Nordic
Tel: +46 8 506 101 84
        +46 70 582 11 48

Kathryn van der Kroft, 3i PR team
Tel: +44 20 7975 3121

Notes to editors

About 3i
3i is an international investor focused on Private Equity, Infrastructure and Debt Management, investing across Europe, Asia and the Americas. Our competitive advantage comes from our international network and the strength and breadth of our business relationships.  These underpin the value that we deliver to our portfolio, shareholders and fund investors.
www.3i.com

About Ålö

The world leading Ålö has as a business idea to be best and quickest to develop and produce front loaders with associated equipment - and to continuously provide its' customers with the best support possible. Ålö develops and manages two independent and market leading brands, Quicke and Trima. The group has sales companies in eight countries and factories in five countries. There is a total of about 600 people working in the group.

About Altor
The Altor Funds are private equity funds comprising the "Altor 2003 Fund", with committed capital of EUR 650 million, the "Altor Fund II", with committed capital of EUR 1,150 million and also the "Altor Fund III", with committed capital of EUR 2,000 million. The Altor Funds are advised by Altor Equity Partners. The Altor Funds invest in companies in the Nordic region with a focus on value creation through growth initiatives, strategic development and operational improvements and have since their inception in 2003 invested in over 30 platform investments and more than 30 add-on acquisitions. Current and past Investments include Aalborg Industries, Dynapac, Meyn, Piab, Byggmax, Lindorff, Dustin, Helly Hansen, Apotek Hjärtat, Carnegie, and Papyrus.