Sodexo Reinforces Its Leisure Activity in Paris with the Acquisition of 'Yachts De Paris'
	Sodexo (PARIS:SW) (OTCBB:SDXAY) announced today that it has acquired a 90% stake in 'Yachts de Paris', one of the best known brand names on the River Seine, for approximately 23 million euro. With this acquisition, Sodexo reinforces its presence at the heart of the French capital, adding to its upscale offer in the Leisure activity managed by Jean-Paul Fontan.
Whether private receptions, cultural cruises or major corporate events, 'Yachts de Paris' excels in the creation of exceptional voyages on the Seine. From the Cashmere to the Paquebot and measuring from 24 to 85 meters, the 8 yachts of the fleet can accommodate up to 800 people, providing fully-customized itineraries and cruises. With its mahogany and copper finish, Bernardaud porcelain china and Baccarat crystal glassware and the refined cuisine of Jean-Pierre Vigato, 'Yachts de Paris' epitomizes the spirit of yachting à la française. 'Yachts de Paris' adds to Sodexo's prestigious references in the Paris area that include the Eiffel Tower with its mythical Jules Verne restaurant (in partnership with Alain Ducasse), Sogeres, the Bateaux Parisiens, the Lido cabaret and Roland-Garros. Story continues below ↓ Advertisement With this illuminating and original service, Sodexo is reinforcing its strategy of developing an exceptional tourist offer in Paris, the world's most visited destination. Marc Bungener, founder and Chief Executive Officer of 'Yachts de Paris', will continue his association with Sodexo to accelerate the growth of the company. Created in 1993 by Marc Bungener, 'Yachts de Paris' combines in his view 'the spirit of yachting with the art of French living in the heart of the capital. The excellence of the service rests on the design of the boats, inspired by yachts of the post-war Riviera and the golden age of trans-Atlantic deck chairs, on the concentrated knowledge of leading French creators and on a level of perfection in hospitality.' As the head of 'Yachts de Paris', Marc Bungener is a rigorous entrepreneur, an expert in the art of living and a devotee of navigation. He pioneers a sense of cruising that combines both a taste of the gilded past as well as a keen vision of modern luxury. Sodexo, founded in 1966 by Pierre Bellon, is a world leader in Food and Facilities Management services, with more than 342,380 employees on 29,000 sites in 80 countries. For Fiscal 2007, which closed August 31, 2007, Sodexo had revenues of 13.4 billion euro. Listed on Euronext Paris, the Group's current market capitalization is 7.2 billion euro.