Caterpillar the world's largest construction and mining equipment maker, moved aggressively to capitalize on demand for commodities in emerging markets Monday with a USD 7.6 billion buyout of Bucyrus International. The acquisition is based on Caterpillar’s key strategic imperative to expand its leadership in the mining equipment industry, and positions Caterpillar to capitalize on the robust long-term outlook for commodities driven by the trend of rapid growth in emerging markets which are improving infrastructure, rapidly developing urban areas and industrializing their economies.
Under the terms of the transaction, which has been approved by the boards of directors of both companies, Bucyrus shareholders will receive USD 92 per share, USD 7.6 billion in aggregate consisting of all cash. The transaction represents an implied premium of 32% to Bucyrus’ share price as of November 12th 2010. Caterpillar will fund the acquisition through a combination of cash from the balance sheet, debt and up to USD 2 billion in equity. The transaction is expected to close in mid-2011. Caterpillar intends to locate its mining business headquarters in South Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where Bucyrus headquarters is currently located, and maintain the Bucyrus brand for the principal Bucyrus legacy products.
Mr Doug Oberhelman chairman and CEO said that “For several years, mining customers have been asking us to expand our range of products and services to better serve their increasingly complex requirements. This announcement says to those customers, we heard you loud and clear. It is a strong statement about our belief in the bright future of the mining industry. Our strategy calls for disciplined investment in attractive industries that value our product and service delivery model.”
He added that "Our performance through the global economic turmoil of 2008-2009 allowed us to emerge with a strong balance sheet and the ability to make strategic investments in companies like Bucyrus. This, and other recent acquisitions, will position Caterpillar for industry leadership and will be positive for our stockholders, customers and employees.”
Mr Tim Sullivan president and CEO of Bucyrus said that “This is an outstanding and financially compelling transaction for our shareholders. More fundamentally, it is a testament to the tremendous value our talented team of employees has created over the past several years and to the strength of our brand in the global mining machinery marketplace. I am confident that we have found an excellent partner in Caterpillar. Caterpillar is a first-rate global company and it shares our commitment to providing innovative products and exceptional service to customers, creating a collaborative and safe work environment for employees and minimizing the impact on the environment. We are very pleased that Caterpillar has committed to locate its mining business headquarters in Milwaukee and we are confident that the combined global platform will be extremely well positioned to capitalize on the substantial growth opportunities in this market in the years ahead.”
