16 April 2013 BPCE has announced the completion of the sale of its 100% holding in Meilleurtaux.com (“the Company”) to funds managed by Equistone Partners Europe Limited (“Equistone”). Founded in 1999, Meilleurtaux.com is a leading provider of advice to consumers looking for mortgage solutions.

BPCE entered into exclusive discussions with Equistone on 18 February 2013 regarding the sale of Meilleurtaux.com. The deal is in line with BCPE’s strategic plan to dispose of joint ventures and non-core subsidiaries.

The sale process, which has been favourably received by the various bodies representing Meilleurtaux.com’s employees, was completed on 16 April 2013.

Equistone is a mid-market investment firm which partners with management teams to support buyouts of high-performing businesses with growth potential and leading market positions. For Equistone, Meilleurtaux.com represents a dynamic, high-profile business with significant potential for further development.

Guillaume Jacqueau, Managing Partner of Equistone Partners Europe, commented: “Equistone has been active in the French market for over twenty years and has been involved with a significant number of businesses at all stages of their development.

“Whilst real estate accounts for a major portion of French people’s budgets, currently only 20% of the French population use brokers and this is set to increase. With its high-profile brand and a network of over 160 franchise offices, Meilleurtaux.com is ideally placed to benefit from this potential for growth.”

Meilleurtaux.com’s management team is pleased with the outcome of the deal and will continue to lead the business following the strategy in place since 2011. The business is well placed for growth and has maintained stable financial results with net growth in 2012.

Hervé Hatt, CEO of Meilleurtaux.com, added: “We are delighted that Equistone has chosen to support Meilleurtaux.com’s growth and current business strategy. Equistone’s partnership will enable the business to continue to provide its customers with the expert, independent support that they need in this uncertain economic climate.”

François Pérol, Chairman of the Management Board of BPCE, commented: “Meilleurtaux.com is well placed to continue its growth with an acquirer which is convinced of the Company’s development potential, and which will support the experienced management team that has successfully led the development of the company.”