This week, Friesland Bank Investments (FBI) and the management of the Brakel Group agreed with CRH to takeover the Brakel Group. The Brakel Group, with a turnover of around 45 million euros and 320 employees, consists of Brakel Atmos (NL), Brakel Aluminium (NL), Brakel Aero (B) and Airvent Systems (UK) and is a major player on the European market of daylight/glazing constructions, ventilation and fire safety systems.

For over 35 years, The Brakel Group provides total solutions for comfortable, (fire)safe environments in all types of buildings, from residential buildings, schools, shopping centres and stations to car parks and industrial buildings.

At the end of 2009 CRH plc, since 1996 owner of the Brakel Group, announced that the activities of the Brakel Group no longer match the strategy of the CRH. CRH is pleased that by this takeover the Brakel Group remains in the hands of parties that feel strongly about entrepreneurship, market orientation, innovation and sustainability.

Friesland Bank Investments is a subsidiary of Friesland Bank NV and invests in medium sized Dutch companies with a strong and ambitious management. The basis for each investment is a clear strategy, endorsed by both management and shareholders.

By the participation of Friesland Bank Investments and the management, the Brakel Group is controlled by a strong Dutch party. Ton van Gerwen, Managing Director of the Brakel Group is very pleased about it: "FBI is an active, enterprising and committed investor. With them as our new partner, we will be able to respond to market developments within our sector and expand further in Europe as an independent company . Entrepreneurship, market orientation, flexibility, continuity, and building on the strengths of our companies is supported by both parties. "

Commenting on the transaction Perry Bos, Investment Director of Friesland Bank Investments says: "As a leading player in this market the Brakel companies are well positioned and able to respond to new market developments. There is a solid foundation for further growth and expansion of activities. We are proud that we as an investor can contribute to the further development of the Brakel Group, a company that complements our investment objectives. "