Warner Music Group has completed its £487 million all-cash acquisition of Parlophone Label Group.
In addition to the Parlophone label, PLG includes the
Chrysalis/Ensign labels in the United Kingdom, EMI Classics and Virgin
Classics and the EMI operating companies in Belgium, Czech Republic,
Denmark, France, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain and Sweden.
The transaction was agreed on February 6, 2013 between Warner Music
Group and Universal Music Group, with PLG being a necessary divestment
of the latter’s acquisition of EMI earlier this year.
“This is a defining moment for Warner Music, which is strengthened
today by the addition of PLG’s acclaimed roster, renowned catalog and
gifted executives,” said chairman and founder of WMG parent Access
Industries Len Blavatnik. “This acquisition further cements Warner
Music’s place as the world’s best home for extraordinary artists.”
CEO, Warner Music Group Stephen Cooper added: “We are delighted to
officially welcome PLG’s legendary roster and dynamic team to the Warner
Music family.
“This acquisition unites two companies synonymous with incredible
music, pioneering labels and artists that have shaped genres and defined
generations.
“By staying true to our shared values, leveraging our complementary
strengths and investing in growth, we will build on that remarkable
legacy to set new standards in artist development and drive
industry-leading innovation,” he added. “Above all, this historic deal
will create global opportunities for great music talent.”
Universal
Music CEO and chairman Lucian Grainge commented: "We are very pleased
to complete this transaction – another great step forward positioning
Universal Music to fully capitalize on music’s many new and exciting
opportunities. Over the course of the past year, we successfully
acquired the recorded music assets of the legendary British music
company EMI, revitalized its iconic Capitol Records and Virgin Records
and further strengthened UMG's position as the global leader in music.
"Now, given PLG’s strong valuation, the transaction’s proceeds
provide us significant resources for our global reinvestment program
rebuilding EMI, preserving its heritage and helping all of UMG lead the
industry’s digital transformation – and even better able to serve
artists, songwriters and business partners, while offering fans more
choice."
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