GUS plc Information

GUS plc is a retail and business services group. Its activities now comprise general merchandise retailing through Argos Retail Group and information and customer relationship management services through Experian. GUS is committed to creating long-term shareholder value by focusing on businesses with above average growth potential and establishing leadership positions in its chosen markets. Over the last six years, GUS has established a track record of creating value for shareholders by focusing on growth businesses and investing in their future. Since January 2000, GUS has exited from low growth or low return on assets businesses such as home shopping, property investment and motor vehicle financing. It has also simplified its structure by disposing of Burberry (via placings in 2002 and 2003 and a demerger to GUS shareholders in December 2005) and Lewis in South Africa (via placings in 2004 and 2005). Over the same period, GUS has invested heavily in Argos Retail Group (ARG) and Experian, both organically and by acquisition. This investment has largely been funded by the proceeds of the disposals noted above. As explained later, we have clear strategies for continued growth at both Argos Retail Group and Experian, supported by investment in operations, infrastructure, complementary acquisitions and good people. In order to enhance value further, the Board plans to separate GUS into two businesses: Argos Retail Group and Experian. As discussed later, and subject to shareholder approval, this will be achieved by means of a demerger with both businesses becoming independently listed on the London Stock Exchange. The objective of GUS has been to deliver sustainable returns for all its stakeholders. Our aim has been to deliver a growth in total shareholder return over the medium term (i.e. over three years) that at least matches the top quartile of comparable listed companies. GUS achieves this through sustainable growth in sales and profit, by investing in projects that give returns in excess of its cost of ...