OREANDA-NEWS. May 16, 2011. X5 Retail Group N.V., Russia's largest retailer in terms of sales (LSE ticker: "FIVE"), today announced that it has completed the acquisition of 8.45% stake in A5 pharmacy chain, one of Russia's leading pharmacy retailers. X5 also retains the right to purchase up to 100% of the chain until the end of 2012.

Andrei Gusev, X5 Retail Group CEO, commented:

"Our number one priority is to strengthen X5 Retail Group's core business efficiency and we have no plans to expand into new market segments at this time. We received an 8.45% interest in A5 pharmacy chain for a nominal price in accordance with the terms of its agreement with A5 pharmacy chain. In deciding whether or not we will exercise our option to acquire 100% of the chain until 2012, we will evaluate all factors including pharmacy sector attractions for X5, pre-investment due-diligence on the business and estimated return on invested capital in comparison with investment opportunities in our core business."