HeidelbergCement strengthens equity base

The Managing Board of HeidelbergCement AG has resolved, with the consent of the Supervisory Board, to make use of the authorized capital and to implement a capital increase with subscription rights for shareholders to strengthen the equity base following the extraordinary charges in 2004. The company expects cash proceeds from the capital increase in the amount of about EUR 270 million.

The subscription price is EUR 35.00, the subscription ratio 13 : 1. The new shares will be entitled to dividend as of 1 January 2005. The two-weeks subscription period will commence shortly.