For Immediate Release

Indian Marico Buys Egyptian Brand Fiancée, HC Acts As Financial Advisor and Promoter

Cairo, September 18, 2006 – In a deal promoted by HC, Marico India has acquired the brand name Fiancée from the Egypt-based Ready Group for an undisclosed amount. HC acted as financial advisor for Fiancée. As part of the agreement, Marico will directly invest in Egypt.

Marico is regarded as one of world’s top companies for health, skin and hair care products. It has a large presence in the Middle East through its investments in UAE.

Fiancée is a market leader in hair cream and hair gel in Egypt with an estimated market share of 20%. It is one of several companies owned by Reedy Group in Egypt and run by Sayed Al-Reedy, the Group’s Chairman.