Kirkel, 8 May 2006 – Dr. Rolf-Dieter Graß assumed the management of the newly created Corporate Communications and Investor Relations (IR) division of Praktiker Bau- und Heimwerkermärkte Holding AG effective 1 May 2006.

The graduated economist (aged 54) and former editor of the Wirtschaftswoche magazine last worked as head of corporate communications with Thomas Cook AG. Other positions held include responsibility for IR at mg technologies AG, adidas Salomon AG and Deutsche Lufthansa AG.

The IR activities, which are being developed, and Praktiker’s press department with the acting press officer Harald Günter will be integrated into the newly created central division.