International Group Buys Cosmetics Chain.

Hong Kong-based A.S. Watson Group, a major international retailer, announced today that it had agreed to buy 65% of Ukraine’s largest retail cosmetics chain, DC. The seller, Asnova Holding, which retained a 35% stake, is a major player in wholesale, distribution and retail trade. The price of the deal was not disclosed. A spokesman from A.S. Watson said it was attracted by Ukraine’s economic growth and the rapid development of the retail sector. Nick Piazza: Asnova and Watson look like a strong pair since Watson can secure imports cheaply and Asnova has a well-developed distribution system.