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Since the publication of 3i Group plc’s (“3i” or “the Group”) financial results for the year to 31 March 2016, 3i has received a number of approaches in respect of Action, the Group’s largest portfolio investment.

Action continues to grow strongly and, based on trading to mid-June, is performing on a trajectory similar to its 2015 performance with a similar level of like-for-like sales growth. Action is currently also on track to open materially more new stores this year than it did last year.

In light of the third-party interest in Action and its continuing growth and financial trajectory, the Board of 3i has decided to increase the book value of its investment in Action to £1,464 million1 after liquidity discount as at 30 June 2016 (31 March 2016: £902 million). This implies a post discount run-rate EBITDA multiple of 18.2x applied to the run-rate earnings as at 31 March 20162.  The book valuation of £1,464 million amounts to a less than 15x projected run-rate EBITDA as at 31 December 20162 on the assumption that Action continues to grow on its current trajectory for the remainder of this calendar year.

3i is actively engaged in the further development of Action and is not intending to sell its investment or organise a flotation of Action in the near future.

We will publish our Q1 performance update on 27 July 2016, which will include this adjustment and the results of our quarterly portfolio valuation.

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For further information, please contact:

Silvia Santoro
Investor Relations Director
Tel: 020 7975 3258

Toby Bates
Interim Communications Director
Tel: 020 7975 3032