Jergens Acquires Ban Antiperspirant/Deodorant

The Andrew Jergens Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Kao Corporation of Japan, today announced that it has signed a definitive agreement with Chattem, Inc. of Chattanooga, TN, to acquire Ban antiperspirant/deodorant. Ban is a full line of roll-on and stick antiperspirants/deodorants for men and women and includes a new line, Ban Naturals, enriched with aloe, Vitamin E and Chamomile, that was introduced in April of this year. Pending regulatory approval, the sale is expected to close in mid-September 2000.

“The acquisition of Ban deodorant further strengthens The Andrew Jergens Company’s position as a major marketer of personal care products in the mass market category,” says William J. Gentner, president and CEO of the Andrew Jergens Company. “Ban has very strong brand awareness, a loyal consumer base and good product line. We look forward to fully adopting Ban within our corporate umbrella.”