“Today we are creating history in Swedish food retail,” comments Klas Balkow, President and CEO of Axfood. “Today, Bergendahls Food become part of Dagab, and we also initiate our strategic partnership with City Gross. With higher volumes we strengthen our positions on the market, and I very much look forward to our cooperation.”

On 31 May 2021 Axfood announced that an agreement had been reached with Bergendahl & Son AB to acquire 100% of Bergendahl Food AB. In addition, as part of a strategic partnership, Axfood announced its intention to acquire a minority stake corresponding to 9.9% of the shares in City Gross Sverige AB (“City Gross”) with an option to increase its total shareholding to 30%. The acquisition was completed today through Axfood taking possession of and becoming the owner of the shares under the agreement. Payment was made in cash through a combination of existing cash and credit facilities. To maintain a strong financial position over time, as previously communicated Axfood intends to carry out a new share issue of SEK 1.5 bn with preferential rights for existing shareholders. A proposal will be made to Axfood’s Annual General Meeting on 23 March 2022 to authorize the Board of Directors to decide on a new issue of shares for implementation in 2022.

Further information about the transaction can be found in Axfood’s press releases dated 31 May 2021 and 16 September 2021.