Disclaimer :

The Competition DG makes the information provided by the notifying parties in section 1.2 of Form CO available to the public in order to increase transparency. This information has been prepared by the notifying parties under their sole responsibility, and its content in no way prejudges the view the Commission may take of the planned operation. Nor can the Commission be held responsible for any incorrect or misleading information contained therein.

COMP/M. 6188 - VITOL / HELIOS / SHELL / PLATEAU HOLDING / BV 3

SECTION 1.2

Description of the concentration

This notification relates to the proposed acquisition of joint control by Vitol, Helios and Shell of most of Shell's downstream business in Africa, comprising the establishment of two joint ventures. One joint venture will own and operate Shell’s existing oil products, distribution and retailing businesses in 14 African countries. The other will own Shell’s interests in lubricants blending plants in seven African countries and will manage wholesale distribution of lubricants products.

1. Vitol is an independent trader of various commodities and financial instruments relating in particular to the oil and gas sector.

2. Helios is one of the largest Africa-focused private investment firms and is among the few independent pan-African private equity investment firms to be founded and managed by Africans.

3. Shell is active in the worldwide exploration, production and sale of oil and natural gas, the production and sale of oil products and chemicals, power generation and the production of energy from renewable resources.