News - 29.06.2011

Herkules III acquires Hjelp24

(Oslo, 29 June 2011) Herkules Private Equity Fund III has entered into an agreement to acquire the shares of Hjelp24 AS, the leading Norwegian corporate healthcare provider.

Hjelp24 is the largest occupational health service provider in Norway with a market share of approximately 20 percent. Furthermore, the company is leading within the treatment for muscular and skeletal disorders and lifestyle related diseases with a strong brand and unique competence through the private hospital Hjelp24 NIMI. In 2010 Hjelp24’s turnover reached NOK 545 million, and the company has approximately 700 employees. “We consider Hjelp24 to be the most attractive private healthcare company in Norway with a strong market position within attractive segments with substantial growth potential. Hjelp24’s diversified customer base and highly competent organization is an excellent platform for further growth. We are confident that Hjelp24 through its leading position will take active part in further developing the private healthcare market in the coming years”, says Rikke Tobiasson Reinemo, Partner at Herkules Capital.

Herkules acquires 100% of the shares in Hjelp24 from Gjensidige’s wholly owned subsidiary Glitne Invest AS.

Lise Wesly, Managing Director at Hjelp24, adds: “We are pleased with having Herkules as new owners. With a dedicated, financially strong owner and a competent organization we have the necessary resources to succeed with our ambitious growth targets.”

About Hjelp24: Hjelp24 is the largest and leading player within corporate healthcare in Norway, and it has 40 offices across the country. The business is run under strong brand names, such as Hjelp24 and NIMI, and provides products to a diversified customer portfolio consisting of private customers and private and public enterprises. Hjelp24 covers the whole treatment chain from prevention and risk assessment to rehabilitation and return to work. The company is organized in four service areas; corporate health care services, private hospitals, emergency alarms and consulting. You can find further information on www.hjelp24.no

Herkules consists of three funds, with a total capital base of NOK 12.25 billion in committed capital from Norwegian and international investors. Herkules has the financial strength to acquire majority ownership positions in established companies with growth potential. Companies owned by Herkules funds are: Pronova BioPharma, Noratel, European House of Beds, Beerenberg Corp., Micro Matic Norge, Tilbords, Hatteland Display, EFG European Furniture Group, Aibel, Nevion, Estrella Maarud, Gothia Financial Group, Projectiondesign, Bandak, New Store Europe, Elis, ODLO, Intelecom and Norsk Jernbanedrift.

Contact:
Rikke Tobiasson Reinemo, Partner at Herkules Capital
Telephone: +47 22 04 80 06