Guinness Peat Group Plc (GPG)

Shares / Stock Code

GPG

Stock Exchange / Sharemarket

ax

Guinness Peat Group plc (GPG) is a diversified investment holding company based in UK. GPG holds a range of strategic interests in several businesses, located mainly in Europe and Australasia. The Company holds a 16% stake in Premier Investment (PMV) in Australia. GPG is included on the London, Australian and New Zealand Stock Exchanges. It listed on the Australian Stock Exchange on 17th December, 2002. During the year ended 31 December 2007, Guinness had a market capitalisation of around £854 million, with shareholders’ funds of £951 million. The Company has a successful track record of investments in diversified sectors such as financial services, thread manufacture, foodstuff manufacture and building services. GPG has a widespread portfolio of investments diversified both geographically and sectorially. Backed by a small but experienced team of highly skilled and professional executives operating with strong teamwork and close communication, the Company is focused on achieving steady growth in the value of shareholders’ funds.

Guinness Peat Group Plc History

In 1990, Brierley Investments Limited took over the charge of GPG. Afterwards GPG underwent a restructuring phase, with all of its then existing businesses sold off. GPG listed on the NZSE in 1991. It listed on the London Stock Exchange in 1992 and it listed on the Australian Stock Exchange in 1993. In August 1995 Brierley Investments Limited ceased its involvement in GPG and sold all of its remaining shares held in GPG. On 13 December 2002, Brunel Holdings plc became the legal parent of GPG (UK) Holdings plc, which was then known as Guinness Peat Group plc. The Group followed its existing operations with the same executive management as of the previously Guinness Peat Group plc. Brunel Holdings plc was acquired by the former Guinness Peat Group plc. Later Guinness Peat Group plc adopted the name GPG (UK) Holdings plc and Brunel Holdings plc adopted the name Guinness Peat Group plc. In 2003 a consortium led by GPG completed the takeover of Coats plc which became a wholly owned subsidiary of GPG in 2004. Coats is a leading supplier of industrial thread and consumer crafts in the world. It is also the world’s second largest manufacturer of zip.