Summary of the benefits of the acquisition

Growth

  • Combining two complementary businesses has made K+S the leading salt producer in North America and the world

Market position

  • Numerous production sites located close to customers in the USA and Canada
  • A leading consumer salt brand and a nationwide distribution network

Diversification

  • Expansion of the Company’s geographical presence in the North American salt market and an improved position in the North American consumer and industrial markets
  • Access to new and less volatile de-icing salt regions
  • Strengthens the K+S Group as a whole both in Europe and overseas

Operating synergies

  • Use of the leading consumer brand for the existing portfolio
  • Optimisation of logistics flows between Chile, Brazil and North America

Financial benefits

  • Positive effect on earnings/shares from 2010; fulfils K+S’s acquisition criteria
  • A profitable salt business with higher cash flow generation
  • Guarantee of a strong, flexible balance sheet

Transformation

  • The slight operational overlap facilitates smooth integration
  • Direct benefits for employees, customers and shareholders