D¿SELDORF, Germany -- The Henkel Group has successfully completed the sale and transfer of ownership of its independent chemicals business, Cognis. The transaction is based on an enterprise value of 2.5 billion euros ($2.26 billion U.S.). The purchaser is the investor's consortium of funds advised by Permira, GS Capital Partners and Schroder Ventures Life Sciences.

According to Dr. Ulrich Lehner, president and CEO of the Henkel Group, "Our focus is now on our two strategic businesses, Brands and Technologies. With the proceeds from the sale of Cognis, we will strengthen our existing businesses and ensure our long-term growth." Henkel is a specialist in brands and technologies, operating worldwide with affiliates in over 75 countries.

For more information, visit www.henkel.com.