Acquisition of an interest in Lenzing AG
In 2001, a 90.5% holding in Lenzing is acquired from Bank Austria in return for additional asset participation rights. As a result, the value of the B&C portfolio increases by 48% as at year-end 2001.
B&C also acquires the largest contiguous hunting and forestry estate in central Europe with its purchase of a majority interest in ALWA.
Purchase of additional 29% stake in Semperit AG Holding
The purchase of an additional 29% in Semperit AG Holding is concluded in 2003. B&C becomes Semperit’s majority shareholder with an interest of approximately 54%, further consolidating the industrial side of the portfolio.
The dissolution of the Gewista/Affichache joint venture with the JCDecaux Group marks B&C’s withdrawal from the outdoor advertising segment in 2003.
In 2004 B&C sells its AUA shares (a 7.59% stake) on the open market as an Austrian majority has already been secured through syndicates.