ZAANDAM, The Netherlands, Sept. 30, 2004 (PRIMEZONE) -- Ahold today announced that it has reached a settlement with the Dutch Public Prosecutor with regard to the investigation into side letters. Ahold will pay an amount of EUR 8 million. In turn, the Dutch Public Prosecutor will not institute proceedings against the company.
Peter Wakkie, member of the Ahold Executive Board and Chief Corporate Governance Counsel: "We firmly believe that this settlement is the best solution for all our stakeholders. This will prevent a lengthy, costly and time-consuming legal procedure and another investigation into the past can be concluded."