Prysmian Snaps Up General Cable for $3Bln

Prysmian and General Cable have entered into a definitive merger agreement under which Prysmian will acquire General Cable for $30.00 per share in cash.

The transaction values General Cable at approximately $3 billion, including debt and certain other General Cable liabilities, and represents a premium of approximately 81% to the General Cable closing price of $16.55 per share on July 14, 2017, the last day of trading before General Cable announced its review of strategic alternatives.

Headquartered in Kentucky (USA), General Cable is a global player in the development, design, manufacture, marketing and distribution of copper, aluminum and fiber optic wire and cable products. The company, additionally engages in the design, integration and installation on a turn-key basis of products such as high and extra-high voltage terrestrial and submarine systems.

The transaction is expected to close by the third quarter of 2018, subject to the approval of General Cable’s shareholders representing at least a majority of the outstanding shares, regulatory approvals, and other customary conditions.

The combined group will be present in more than 50 countries with approximately 31,000 employees.

“The acquisition of General Cable represents a landmark moment for Prysmian Group and a strategic and unique opportunity to create value for our shareholders and customers,” said Valerio Battista, Prysmian Group CEO. “Through the combination of two of the premier companies in the cable industry we will be enhancing our position in the sector, by increasing our presence in North America and expanding our footprint in Europe and South America.”

John E. Welsh, III, non-executive chairman of the board of General Cable, said: “Today’s announcement is the culmination of a thorough and robust review of strategic alternatives undertaken by the General Cable Board of Directors. We are confident that this transaction maximizes value for our shareholders.”

Michael T. McDonnell, General Cable president and chief executive officer, said: “This combination is an ideal strategic fit and ensures we are well-positioned to meet the future opportunities and challenges in the dynamic and evolving wire and cable industry. Together, we will be able to deliver a robust portfolio of products and services and new product innovation across the full breadth of the wire and cable industry globally. Importantly, Prysmian and General Cable have a shared vision and highly compatible cultures founded on similar values.”