Growth in the USD 5 billion plus global respiratory markets is expected to be at least 10% per annum going forward and the market for global sleep apnea management in particular is expected to show a mid-teen percentage growth rate annually in the coming years, as rising awareness of this potentially life-threatening condition leads to increasing diagnosis and treatment of OSA. Growth in the global sleep and respiratory markets is expected to be particularly significant in Asia and Europe, where Philips' strong brand combined with the sales and distribution channels of both organizations will further accelerate adoption of Respironics' innovative portfolio.

"A core part of Philips' healthcare strategy is to take a leading position in the high-growth sector of home healthcare," Steve Rusckowski, Chief Executive Officer of Philips Healthcare and member of the Board of Management of Royal Philips, said. "This acquisition, with its significant strategic and financial benefits to Philips Healthcare, is another important step in carrying out this strategy." Upon completion of this acquisition, Respironics will become the centerpiece of Home Healthcare Solutions, which will form part of Philips Healthcare as of January 1, 2008.


"The transaction ... will deliver superior and certain value to Respironics' shareholders," said John L. Miclot, President and Chief Executive Officer of Respironics. "The combination of Respironics and Philips will allow us to continue to provide exceptional products and services to our customers and allow Respironics to expand its leadership in the global sleep and respiratory markets. Philips is the right partner to create additional growth opportunities for our company, and we believe that our company will benefit significantly by being part of a larger, growing and dynamic organization. We look forward to working with Philips to ensure an effective and seamless transition."

Philips has made a number of successful acquisitions in the area of Home Healthcare so far. Last year Philips announced the acquisition of Lifeline Systems, and Health Watch and Raytel Cardiac Services were added this year. Philips Home Healthcare Solutions already offers a range of solutions that enable the treatment and monitoring of patients in the surroundings of their personal living space rather than in a hospital environment. Today, Philips Home Healthcare Solutions supports almost one million at-risk seniors, either in their own homes or in senior living facilities throughout the U.S. and Canada.

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