Fosters Group Limited (ASX:FGL) Approves $US500 Million Asian Debt Syndication

Melbourne, July 30, 2009 AEST (ABN Newswire) - The Board of Foster's Group Limited (ASX:FGL)(Foster's) has approved a $US500 million 3-year syndicated debt facility, following a recent successful road-show and invitation to Asian bank debt markets.

The $US500 million Asian debt facility includes a fully drawn tranche and revolving facilities in Australian and United States dollar denominations. The initial $US300 million facility was more than 2 times oversubscribed and increased to $US500 million following a review of commitments from Asian banks.

"We are very pleased with the response", said Chief Financial Officer, Angus McKay. "With strong cashflow characteristics and an outstanding brand portfolio, Foster's received excellent support from Asian banks."

"While Foster's retains substantial existing un-drawn facilities, this raising ensures we maintain a strong and diversified medium term committed liquidity position for the Group", McKay said.

The facility will be used for general corporate purposes and to maintain liquidity.
ANZ Bank Group Limited, Commonwealth Bank of Australia and The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Limited were the Mandated Lead Arrangers and Joint Book-Runners for this debt raising.