£3.6M Acquisition of Allied Mechanical Services

Keller Group PLC 20 March 2000 KELLER GROUP IN AMS ACQUISITION Keller Group plc ('Keller'), the global construction services group, announces that it has acquired Allied Mechanical Services Ltd ('AMS'), a UK mechanical and electrical services company. AMS was incorporated in 1985 and has built up a strong customer base in East Anglia and Greater London. Its activities include the design, installation and maintenance of heating and ventilation, refrigeration, air-conditioning and electrical systems for commercial organisations and public bodies. The acquisition of AMS will strengthen Keller's position within the UK refurbishment market, which includes not only traditional external renovation but also mechanical and electrical elements. By being able to offer AMS's specialist services alongside those offered by Keller's existing refurbishment business, Makers UK Ltd, Keller will be able to participate in a broader range of projects. The initial consideration for the acquisition is £3.6m of which £875,000 will be discharged in cash and £2.625m by guaranteed loan notes. A further £100,000 will be discharged in the form of 5% cumulative redeemable preference shares of £1 each issued by AMS Holdings Ltd, a newly created company acting as the vehicle for the purchase. In addition, deferred consideration up to a maximum of £1.4m shall be payable in guaranteed loan notes depending on the level of future profits achieved by AMS. In the year to 31 March 1999, AMS achieved profit before taxation of £1.163m on turnover of £5.106m. At 31 March 1999, AMS had net assets of £0.7m. Following the acquisition, the vendors will remain as the joint managing directors of AMS and have committed to stay in the business for the two year earn-out period. All other personnel will continue in their employment with AMS. Commenting on the acquisition, Tom Dobson, Chief Executive of Keller, said: 'In our preliminary results announcement last week, we stated our intention to make future bolt-on acquisitions and that we would continue to enhance the scope of our services to the refurbishment sector. I am pleased to announce this acquisition so early in 2000 which will strengthen our position in this fast growing sector.' For further information, please contact: Tom Dobson, Chief Executive Keller Group plc 020 8341 6424 Justin Atkinson, Finance Director Keller Group plc 020 8341 6424 Stephanie Highett / Nick Lambert GCI Focus 020 7398 0800

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