The week in business: 13 March
ING invests in IT, possible takeover of Galapagos and an overview of the rest of the week's business news
Banking – ING
Biotech – Galapagos
The Mechelen-based biotechnology company is believed to be a potential target of a takeover bid by the US-based pharmaceutical AbbVie or Johnson & Johnson groups. Shares in Galapagos have shot up some 50% since the beginning of the year, valuing the company at over €700 million.
Chemicals – Solvay
The Brussels-based chemicals and plastics group has signed a partnership agreement with the Swiss 3A Composites developer of core materials and specialty foams used in the automobile and aviation industries, replacing structural parts with light-weight products.
Fast Food – Exki
The Brussels-based healthy fast food chain recently inaugurated its second restaurant in New York and has plans to open a further 20 stores in the city over the next few years. It also plans three outlets in Paris this year.
Property development – Art & Build
The Brussels-based firm has been selected for the development and project management of a €528 million hospital in Nantes, France. The new facility, slated for opening in 2023, will have 1,380 beds.
Retail – H&M Home
The Swedish apparel group is opening a home furnishings and decoration store in Ghent this week, as well as one in Bruges next month
Waste management – Katoen Natie
The Antwerp-based port logistics group has acquired 75% of the shares of the Vilvoorde-based Indaver waste management company for €416 million from the Dutch Delta firm.
