Lincoln International Represents The Peak Group and Merit Capital Partners in the Sale of Southern Lime to Unimin Corporation, a subsidiary of SCR-Sibelco NV

CHICAGO, September 4, 2007 - Lincoln International, a leading global mid-market investment bank, acted as the exclusive financial advisor to The Peak Group ("Peak") and Merit Capital Partners ("Merit") in the sale of Peak Lime, Inc. ("Southern Lime"), a leading producer and marketer of quicklime and hydrated lime in the Southeastern United States. Southern Lime was sold to Unimin Corporation ("Unimin"), one of the world's leading industrial mineral producers and a subsidiary of Belgium-based SCR-Sibelco NV.

Lincoln International enjoys a longstanding relationship with Merit and worked with Peak, Merit and Southern Lime's senior management team throughout the transaction. 

Mike Boyce, CEO of Peak and Southern Lime said, "The minerals industry is a global business and many of the leading companies are headquartered outside of the United States.  Lincoln International's cross-border capabilities were important in identifying numerous attractive foreign acquirers. Peak was very pleased with Lincoln's work."

"Lincoln International ensured the success of the transaction with its hands-on approach, strong execution, and deep industry knowledge," added Tom Campion, managing director, Merit. "Lincoln International drove the process and produced the type of results we expected from Lincoln International.  The shareholders were very pleased with this transaction."

The sale of Southern Lime represents the 16th cross-border deal closed by Lincoln International this year. It is also the second transaction Lincoln has completed for Merit.

About Lincoln International
Lincoln International specializes in merger and acquisition services and private capital raising for leading organizations involved in mid-market transactions.  With offices in Chicago, Frankfurt, Los Angeles, New York, Paris and Vienna, and strategic partnerships with China Everbright and other partner firms in Asia, Lincoln International has strong local knowledge and contacts in the key global economies.  The organization provides clients with senior-level attention, in-depth industry expertise, and integrated resources.  By being focused and independent, Lincoln International serves its clients without conflicts of interest.  More information about Lincoln International can be obtained at www.lincolninternational.com. 

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