The divestment of the Epirotic Bottling Industry (also known as Vikos) from EPSA was officially signed with the investment fund SMERC. It is noted that the company controlled 25% of EPSA. SMERC controls 67% of the company.

The President of Epirotic Bottling Industry , Petros Shepetas, made the following statement: 'Following the announcement of the major investment programme of EUR 100 million over five years, we decided, after ten years of participation, to divest from EPSA, considering that it does not make sense for us to remain as investors in this scheme, without this meaning that our paths will not cross again in the future.

We remain committed to our strategic plan for growth by further strengthening our market position. We are the largest bottled water company in Greece and the largest Greek soft drink company in the country. We continue to aim even higher, true to our values and strategy."

It was officially announced that Agria Emporiki which controls the investment fund SMERemediumCap since last June, acquired the 25% stake of Epirotic Bottling Industry in EPSA. It is noted that in April Agria Emporiki proceeded with a €5.6 million share capital increase.

SMERemediumCap President Nikos Karamouzis said: "We have a deep appreciation for Petros Shepeta and his family and for his successful business career that consistently creates economic and social value. We decided after friendly and fruitful discussions that it would be better for all parties involved to pursue an independent business path, with SMERC's purchase of the percentage stake of Epirus Bottling Company in EPSA, so that both companies can seamlessly implement their own ambitious plans and growth strategy, without mutual commitments and restrictions, in a healthy competitive environment. We will support EPSA's dynamic growth so that it can play a leading role in the market."