Response to Press Speculation

Findel plc ("Findel" or "the Group")

RESPONSE TO PRESS SPECULATION

In response to press speculation, the Board of Findel announces that it is in the early stages of discussions with Sports Direct International plc (SDI), regarding a possible commercial supply arrangement between Express Gifts and SDI and the possible appointment of Mike Ashley to the Board of Findel plc. 

This proposal was made by Schroders on behalf of SDI and includes a requirement that Mike Ashley be made chairman of Findel, replacing the outgoing chairman, David Sugden, who has previously announced his intention to step down at the forthcoming AGM.  Toscafund have also indicated their support for Mike Ashley's appointment as Chairman.

The Board of Findel considers there to be great merit in exploring a commercial supply arrangement with SDI and that Mike Ashley could make a valuable contribution to the Board of Findel but has not concluded on whether Mr Ashley should be chairman. There would need to be means through which minority shareholders could be protected and Mr Ashley would need first to be approved by the Financial Conduct Authority, which regulates Express Gifts Limited.

There can be no certainty that any commercial arrangement between SDI and Express Gifts will be forthcoming.

A further announcement will be made in due course.

Enquiries

Tulchan Communications LLP
Stephen Malthouse
020 7353 4200