PRESS RELEASE - IDÉ House of Brands completes merger with Wackes AB

We hereby confirm that the merger between IDÉ House of Brands and Wackes AB has been successfully completed.

Reference is made to the press release published on October 9^th 2025, in which IDÉ House of Brands and Wackes AB announced the initiation of a due diligence process in connection with a proposed merger. We can now confirm that the due diligence process has been completed and concluded in accordance with the agreed timeline.

The transaction was formally executed in January 2026. The parties will now continue their collaboration with the objective of establishing a shared operational platform for future development and growth.

Strategic Rationale

The merger is driven by several long-term strategic considerations:

• Financial stability and professional governance
  Becoming part of a larger, well-capitalized group enhances long-term financial resilience and strengthens governance structures, supporting responsible ownership and participation in joint ventures.
• Cultural and values alignment
  IDÉ House of Brands and Wackes AB share a strong focus on customer-centricity, ethical business practices, responsible sourcing, and high-quality standards. These shared values provide a solid foundation for long-term collaboration.
• Scale enabling compliance and responsibility
  Increased scale enables stronger and more systematic investments in sustainability, regulatory compliance, product safety, digital infrastructure, and secure supply chains.
• Platform for sustainable growth
  The combined organization provides a robust platform for controlled, long-term growth without compromising standards, quality, or commitments.

Leadership Continuity

As part of the transaction, Thomas Davidsson will continue as CEO for Sweden and will also assume the role of Vice Group CEO within the IDÉ House of Brands Group. As IDÉ works toward a unified Nordic organizational structure, Nina Lauritzen will continue as CEO of IDÉ House of Brands Norway and will take on the role of Group CEO. Anders Ekvall will assume the Nordic leadership of CSP and lead the team responsible for Sustainability and ESG. Lasse Lauritzen will continue as Chairman of the entire group. The chair of the board is actively involved in daily operations.

This leadership structure ensures continuity in management, decision-making, and strategic accountability, and reflects a strong, long-term commitment to the business and the IDÉ Group.

Conclusion

The merger strengthens the IDÉ Group’s ability to operate as a responsible, stable, and forward-looking shareholder within the product media industry.

For further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.