February 13^th, 2006
Sale of Liverpool Casino to Gala Group Ltd for £14.5 million

Gala Group Ltd (‘Gala’), the UK’s leading gaming company, today announces it has agreed to acquire the Leo Casino in Liverpool, from Mr Amaury Taittinger, for £14.5m. Completion is expected within two weeks.

The casino, which is situated on the Queen's Dock next to Liverpool's Albert Dock, was opened in December 2002. It has 22 gaming tables, a restaurant and two bars.

Following today’s acquisition Gala owns 31 casinos, with more than 1.2 million members. Around 55,000 people visit a Gala casino every week, and Gala Coral’s casino division employs around 3,000 people.

Neil Goulden, Gala Group Chief Executive, said:

"Casinos like Leo rarely become available, so we are particularly pleased to be able to bring it into the Gala Group. I believe we are now well placed to develop the business by adding operational, management, marketing and cost effective promotional skills to an already successful operation."

"Today’s acquisition demonstrates our confidence in Gala’s casino brand, and this is a terrific opportunity for Gala to expand its operations in the Merseyside area."

Amaury Taittinger, said:

"I feel extremely proud that Gala Group is to become the new operator of the Leo Casino in Liverpool. Gala, with over 30 casinos in their estate, have an excellent reputation as market leaders in the industry and this entertainment facility fits perfectly into their portfolio. I am confident that the already successful Leo Casino will progress with Gala Group's experience to the benefit of the customers, employees and Liverpool in general.

I wish all the best for the future of Leo and personally remain committed to Liverpool with the ownership of the Dolby Hotel"