Lafarge and Holcim named Eric Olsen as the future CEO of the combined entity yesterday. The cochairmen
gave their unanimous support behind the CEO nomination and presented a united front in favour
of the merger in a press conference. They also ruled out further adjustment to the merger terms before the
shareholder votes.
The market's reaction has been positive with both share prices rising reflecting increased confidence in the
deal proceeding. However, having spoken to a number of industry contacts, we question Olsen's ability to
deliver on the ambitious targets and hold this venture together.