Healthcare giant to delist on Thursday
Alliance Boots has been transferred to new ownership today under deputy chairman Stefano Pessina and US private equity giant KKR.

In a statement, Alliance Boots said the new owners 'support the existing aims and plans for the business'. The plans include:

· Enhancing Alliance Boots' position as a global leader in the healthcare services and beauty industries

· Building on its position as a trusted UK brand and retail institution

· Developing the business within the UK and overseas

· Investing in order to respond to structural changes in the European pharmacy retail and wholesale markets in which it operates

Alliance Boots has pledged to maintain a socially responsible agenda under private ownership. The retailer will publish and present an annual performance review, update on major business developments and drive its corporate social responsibility agenda. The strategy will keep employees, customers and stakeholders up to date with relevant company information.

The takeover of the iconic UK retailer was the subject of much scrutiny after Pessina made an approach for the company in March.

Although the£11.1 billion deal was approved by shareholders in May, Pessina and KKR faced a potential legal wrangle with Boots pension trustees to secure the future of the pension scheme.

Alliance Boots shares will delist on Thursday.

Topics