The Men's Wearhouse proposal represents a 45% premium over Jos. A. Bank's unaffected enterprise value and a 32% premium over Jos. A. Bank's closing share price on October 8, 2013, the day prior to the public announcement of Jos. A. Bank's proposal to acquire Men's Wearhouse.
"Following Jos. A. Bank's unsolicited public proposal to acquire Men's Wearhouse, our Board of Directors evaluated a number of alternatives to deliver value to our shareholders," said Bill Sechrest, Lead Director of the Board of Men's Wearhouse. "After a thorough review, our Board concluded that an acquisition of Jos. A. Bank by Men's Wearhouse has strategic logic and the potential to deliver substantial benefits to our respective shareholders, employees and customers. In reaching our determination, we considered a number of factors including Men's Wearhouse's advantage in scale, growth and performance, long history as a prudent steward of capital, successful acquisition track record and experienced management team. We believe we are the right acquiror for this combination and that our experienced management team is best positioned to execute the integration of our companies and achieve the synergies that would result. We are ready to engage with the Jos. A. Bank's Board immediately."
Doug Ewert, President and Chief Executive Officer of Men's Wearhouse, said, "Our compelling proposal provides Jos. A. Bank's shareholders with a substantial premium and immediate liquidity for their investment. The transaction will be substantially accretive to Men's Wearhouse's earnings in year one, and the combined company will have a strong balance sheet with the operational flexibility to successfully execute on its strategic plan. Together, we can create the premier men's apparel retailer, with enhanced scale and a broader best-in-class offering for our valued customers, which we expect to drive significant shareholder value."
Let the battle begin. Who do you think will win this fashion industry brawl?
Read more about the boardroom brawl between Jos. A. Bank and the Men’s Wearhouse at the Fashion Newspaper.
As indicated in the press release from The Men’s Wearhouse, “The Men's Wearhouse management team has a proven track record of successful acquisitions, having integrated more than 600 stores and over 7,000 employees in connection with its previous acquisitions of Joseph Abboud, After Hours and Moores. Men's Wearhouse would expect a smooth integration, as there will be no rebranding or remodels required – Jos. A. Bank's store banner would remain in place. Management would consist of the most qualified individuals from both companies, and Men's Wearhouse is confident that its deep-rooted corporate culture of customer service will appeal to Jos. A. Bank employees and customers, and that implementing the best practices of both companies will drive operational and financial success.”
You are welcome to share your thoughts on this subject in the comments area below.
Thank you for taking the time to read our men's fashion retailer blog post. We hope that you have found this news to be informative.