Limited Brands sells stake in Limited Stores

COLUMBUS, Ohio Limited Brands announced that it has finalized the sale of a 75% ownership interest in its Express brand to affiliates of Golden Gate Capital for pre-tax cash proceeds of $602 million, subject to closing adjustments. Limited Brands and Golden Gate Capital agreed to increase Golden Gate Capital's stake to 75% from the previously announced 67%. The change will result in an additional $54 million in pre-tax cash proceeds to Limited Brands which is included in the above-stated $602 million. After pre- closing adjustments, Limited Brands expects to receive after-tax cash proceeds of approximately $425 million and to record an after-tax gain of approximately $188 million, both subject to post-closing adjustments.

Express will continue to operate under the same brand name and is expected to remain headquartered in its current location in Columbus, Ohio. Express' 2006 net sales were $1.7 billion, and it currently operates 624 store locations.

The company also announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to transfer a 75% ownership interest in its Limited Stores business to affiliates of Sun Capital Partners. In exchange, Sun Capital Partners will contribute $50 million of equity capital into the business and will arrange for a $75 million credit facility. The transaction is expected to close within the next 30 days and is subject to customary conditions. Limited Brands will receive no cash proceeds and expects to record an after-tax loss of approximately $42 million on the transaction, subject to post-closing adjustments.

Limited Stores will continue to operate under the same brand name, and it will remain headquartered in its current location in Columbus, Ohio. Limited Brands will provide transitional services, including sourcing and production through its Mast business. Limited Stores' business includes 251 stores and 2006 net sales were $493 million.

"We have moved from a portfolio of brands and businesses to an enterprise powered by two world-leading brands: Victoria's Secret and Bath and Body Works...the best brands in intimate apparel and personal care. These strategic actions will better position Express and Limited Stores for future growth and profitability and enable the 'new' Limited Brands to derive the benefit of our increased focus," said Leslie Wexner, chairman and ceo of Limited Brands.