Statement re Debenhams

RNS Number : 6113A

Sports Direct International Plc

12 September 2018

 

12 September 2018

SPORTS DIRECT INTERNATIONAL PLC

("Sports Direct" or the "Company" or the "Group")

Announcement Regarding Debenhams plc ("Debenhams")

Further to recent press speculation in relation to Debenhams plc, Sports Direct confirms that it does not intend to make an offer to acquire the entire issued and to be issued ordinary share capital of Debenhams plc.

This announcement is made in accordance with Rule 2.8 of the Code. As a result of this announcement, Sports Direct will, except with the consent of the UK Panel on Takeovers and Mergers, be bound by the restrictions contained in Rule 2.8 of the Code.

Sports Direct reserves the right to acquire Debenhams shares, subject to, and in accordance with, the Code and other applicable regulations.  For the purpose of Rule 2.8 of the City Code on Takeovers and Mergers (the "Code"), Sports Direct reserves the right to make or participate in an offer for Debenhams (and/or take any other actions which would otherwise be restricted under Rule 2.8 of the Code) within the next six months following the date of this announcement:

(i)         with the agreement or recommendation of the board of directors of Debenhams;

(ii)        following the announcement of a firm intention to make an offer for Debenhams by or on behalf of a third party;

(iii)       following the announcement by Debenhams of a "whitewash" proposal (as described in Note 1 of the Notes on Dispensations from Rule 9 of the Code) or a reverse takeover (as defined in the Code); or

(iv)       where the Panel on Takeovers and Mergers has determined that there has been a material change of circumstances.

Ends.

Sports Direct International plc Cameron Olsen, Company Secretary LEI: 213800JEGHHEAXIJDX34	T. 0344 245 9200 E. [e-mail]
KBA PR                                  Keith Bishop	T. 0207 734 9995 E. [e-mail]

 

END

 

 

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