TIDMPSON
RNS Number : 9992L
Pearson PLC
09 August 2011
Press release
9 August 2011
PEARSON TO ACQUIRE STARK HOLDING IN GERMANY
Pearson, the world's leading learning company, is today
announcing the acquisition of Stark Holding ("Stark") from Syntegra
Capital.
Stark is a leading provider of education materials including
test preparation resources for pupils and teachers. The company is
widely recognised for its high quality products, particularly in
Maths, German and English. In addition, Stark develops lesson
preparation materials for teachers and career advice books. Stark
had revenues of approximately EUR20m in the fiscal year ended 31
July 2010, and has gross assets estimated at EUR32.6 million.
Pearson's expertise in learning technologies and high quality
digital content combined with Stark's core business presents a
significant opportunity. It also diversifies Pearson's business in
Germany - which currently includes higher education textbooks and
digital resources, English Language teaching material and
Professional books - broadening Pearson's capabilities in line with
its business elsewhere in the world.
Pearson expects the acquisition to enhance adjusted EPS and to
generate a return above Pearson's cost of capital from 2012, its
first full year after acquisition. The acquisition is subject to
regulatory approval.
John Fallon, chief executive of Pearson's International
business, said: "In many countries around the world, we see growing
numbers of students wanting help to prepare for important
examinations and to make the transition from school to college or
University. Stark is already highly respected by German teachers,
students and parents; with access to Pearson's digital solutions,
it can play a bigger role in helping students to learn more
effectively."
ENDS
For more information:
Luke Swanson/ Simon Mays-Smith/ Charles Goldsmith + 44 (0)20
7010 2310
This information is provided by RNS
The company news service from the London Stock Exchange
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