DJ Mexico's Alsea Buys 75% Of Domino's Pizza Chain In Colombia

MEXICO CITY, Jun 04, 2008 (Dow Jones Commodities News via Comtex) -- DPZ | Quote | Chart | News | PowerRating -- Mexican fast-food restaurant operator Alsea SAB (ALSEA.MX) said Wednesday it bought 75% of Dominalco SA, which operates Domino's Pizza Inc. (DPZ)franchises in Colombia.

Alsea said the acquisition expands its presence in the five biggest economies in Latin America - Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile and Colombia - and increases the number of its establishments outside Mexico to 121.

Alsea also has 935 establishments in Mexico, including Domino's Pizza, Starbucks (SBUX) coffee shops, and Burger King (BKC) restaurants.

Dominalco, which has exclusive rights to use the Domino's brand in Colombia, has 21 pizza parlors in Bogota, Cali, Medellin and Pereria, and has been operating in Colombia for the past 20 years, Alsea said.

Dominalco directors Nicolas Moreno Restrepo and Juan Fernando Moreno Restrepo will continue participating in the development of the brand in Colombia, and will maintain a 25% stake in the company.

Alsea shares trading on the Mexican stock market were the top gainers Wednesday, closing up 3.3% at 13.87 pesos ($1.34).

Earlier this week, the company said it opened its first Starbucks coffee shop in Argentina.

-By Anthony Harrup, Dow Jones Newswires; (5255) 5001 5727, anthony.harrup@dowjones.com

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

06-04-08 1832ET

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