Vivendi Approves Spin-Off Plan

PARIS: Vivendi's supervisory board has unanimously backed a plan to split off the group's SFR telecoms business as part of its moves to focus more on media, tapping Vincent Bolloré to serve as chairman after the demerger.

"Based on the analysis submitted, this plan could take the form of a distribution of SFR shares to Vivendi shareholders on the day of the transaction," Vivendi said. "It would offer them the opportunity to invest in two separate vehicles listed on the stock market and valued according to the specifics of their respective sectors.

"In this way, Vivendi aims to become an international media group, bringing together strong brands in the production and distribution of original content. This group would fully respond to the new ways of consuming digital media in music and video, and would pursue its development in fast-growing markets."

Bolloré will become chairman, while Arnaud de Puyfontaine becomes the senior executive VP in charge of Vivendi's media and content activities. He will join the group in early 2014. Currently, de Puyfontaine is serving as the CEO of Hearst Magazines UK and executive VP of Hearst Magazines International.