Mergers & Acquisitions

Sirit Inc., a provider of radio frequency identification technology (RFID), announces that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire RSI ID Technologies Inc.

Imperial Tobacco Group PLC's $18.49 billion (12.6 billion euro) offer for Altadis

Diageo Chateau & Estate Wines (DC&E), a unit of Diageo, will acquire Rosenblum Cellars for $105 million.

Elizabeth Arden Inc. entered into an exclusive longterm global licensing agreement with AEFFE S.p.A. for the development, marketing and distribution of fragrance, cosmetics and skincare products with the international fashion designer Alberta Ferretti.

On Friday, Jan. 25, 2008, Scottish & Newcastle plc (S&N) accepted a $15.5 billion takeover bid from the boards of Sunrise Acquisitions Limited.

The Alberto-Culver Company appoints Gina Boswell to the position of president of global brands. Reporting to V. James Marino, president and chief executive officer, Boswell will oversee global brands such as Alberto V05, TRESemme, St. Ives and Nexxus, research and development, and consumer insights.

Diageo and the Nolet family will form a new 50/50 company, which will own the perpetual exclusive global rights to sell, market and distribute the successful super-premium Ketel One vodka.

James R. Ridings has informed Craftmade International Inc.'s Board of Directors that he will retire as the company's chief executive officer, effective June 30, 2008.