January 7, 2002
Tennis Flags Fly At Half-Mast To Commemorate Unique Man
Flags at today's Heineken Open will fly at half-mast to commemorate the recent passing of Dr. Alfred H. Heineken (78),
former Chairman and Delegate Member of the Management Board of Heineken Holding N.V. in Amsterdam.
As major sponsors of the New Zealand Men's Tennis Open, Heineken will pay their final respects to a "unique man and
visionary" who was responsible for building the family business into the leading international brewery group it is
today.
Rene Van der Graaf, general manager of sales and marketing for DB Breweries Limited, a subsidiary of Asia Pacific
Breweries, says the lowering of the flags during the day marks the end of an era for its parent company Heineken
International.
"Mr. Heineken was devoted to the Heineken Network heart and soul and he leaves behind a legacy which has had a huge
impact on our business in New Zealand and on breweries throughout the world." Mr. Van der Graaf says.
"So I think it is appropriate we lower the Heineken Open flags to celebrate and remember his contributions to business
and to his many life achievements."
Dr. Alfred H. Heineken died peacefully at his home in Noordwijk, the Netherlands on January 3, 2002. In keeping with Mr.
Heineken's wishes, control of Heineken Holding will remain in the family.
Ends