With reference to the article in the Plus supplement of Il Sole 24 Ore published Saturday 22nd June, Benetton Group denies any decision to sell part or all of its sports business linked to the Nordica, Prince, Rollerblade and Killer Loop brands.
Moreover, while stressing the inaccuracy of the figures mentioned in the article, the Company re-states its aim to cut down losses in the sports division by the end of 2002 to one third compared to the 48 millions euros of 2001.
Benetton confirms, however, both to have received signs of interest in its sport brands and its willingness to evaluate strategic opportunities, including possible alliances and partnerships, with the aim of vigorously continuing with the process undertaken last year of returning to profitability and re-launching the sport brands.
