A.S. Watson reinforces its Health & Beauty business with its newly formed Luxury Division Europe.

Paris (9 May 2006)

A.S. Watson, the world's largest health and beauty retailer, has today announced that Hugues Witvoet, CEO Luxury Perfumeries & Cosmetics will head the newly formed Luxury Division Europe.

Ian F. Wade, Group Managing Director of A.S. Watson said, "The A.S. Watson Luxury Division Europe will focus on consolidating the Group's retail businesses in this sector to maximise synergies, growth and enhance relationship with the trade."

The A.S. Watson Luxury Division Europe groups three brands: Marionnaud, Europe's largest chain in selective distribution of perfumes and cosmetics, ICI PARIS XL, one of Benelux's market leaders and The Perfume Shop, UK's leading specialty perfumery chain.

Hugues Witvoet said, "I am very proud to lead this new division. My team will continue to work closely with suppliers continuing the work undertaken in 2005. The main objectives of the Luxury Division are to maximise synergies, anticipate market evolutions for care and beauty products and strengthen relationships with suppliers to generate strong growth."

Press Contact :
Jenny Cabrol Tel. +33 1 44 20 52 78
jennyca@asw.com.hk

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