Strategic Review of PNS

(Hong Kong, 20 July 2013) In response to media inquiries, Hutchison Whampoa Limited (“HWL”) today confirmed that subsidiary AS Watson Group (“ASW”) is conducting a strategic review of its super market retail business operating under the head brand name PARKnSHOP (“PNS”) to optimise value for shareholders.

As at the date of this response, ASW has not yet set a definite timetable for completion of its review and there can be no assurances that the process will result in any transaction being announced or completed.

HWL stressed that the Group has no intention of withdrawing from Hong Kong and market speculations are groundless.

During the strategic review process, ASW and PNS will remain focused on executing their respective operational plans in the ordinary course of business.

PNS, a 100% owned subsidiary of ASW, is the market-leading food retailer in Hong Kong with significant market position in Macau and South China.  It operates 345 stores and had revenues of HK$21.7 billion in 2012.


For media enquiries, please contact:

Hutchison Whampoa Limited
Jeremy Lau
Tel: (852) 2128 1207
Fax: (852) 2128 1766
Email: jeremyl@hwl.com.hk