EP Group becomes Fnac Darty’s controlling shareholder

EP Group has become the controlling shareholder of Fnac Darty after a successful takeover offer valued at more than €1 billion ($1.19 billion). The French retailer sells cultural products, home appliances and electronics.

Czech billionaire businessman and lawyer Daniel Křetínský, chairman and controlling shareholder of EP Group, a European conglomerate built around energy company Energetický a průmyslový holding (EPH), sought the shares he did not already own in an offer announced on 26 January 2026. At the time, EP Group subsidiary Vesa Equity Investment held 28.5% of Fnac Darty’s capital and voting rights.

Offer and response

The January proposal offered €36 per share, a 19% premium over the last closing market price before the announcement. Fnac Darty CEO Enrique Martinez said the board unanimously recommended the offer and that shareholders had expressed broad support for EP Group’s project.

Křetínský also owns publishing group Editis. The offer initially prompted concern across France’s book industry amid concerns about consolidation in the sector, Publishing Perspectives said.

Křetínský said he was committed to supporting Fnac Darty’s development and working with Martinez’s management team and other stakeholders to support growth and strengthen the retailer’s position in Europe.