The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co. will acquire the Cooper Tire & Rubber Co. in a transaction with a total enterprise value of approximately $2.5 billion.
The transaction will expand Goodyear’s product offering by combining two portfolios of complementary brands, Goodyear says, adding that it will also create a stronger U.S.-based manufacturer with an increased presence in distribution and retail channels while combining both companies’ strengths in the light truck and SUV product segments. The combined company will have approximately $17.5 billion in pro forma 2019 sales.
Under the terms of the transaction, which has been approved by the boards of directors of both companies, Cooper shareholders will receive $41.75 per share in cash and a fixed exchange ratio of 0.907 shares of Goodyear common stock per Cooper share for a total equity value of approximately $2.8 billion.
Founded in 1914, Cooper is the fifth-largest tire manufacturer in North America by revenue with approximately 10,000 employees working in 15 countries worldwide, the companies say. Cooper products are manufactured in 10 facilities around the globe, including wholly-owned and joint venture plants. The company’s portfolio of brands includes Cooper, Mastercraft, Roadmaster and Mickey Thompson.
Goodyear says the combined company will offer tire products and a broad selection of services through Goodyear’s relationships with traditional and emerging original equipment manufacturers; autonomous driving system developers; new and established fleet operators; and other mobility platforms. Goodyear adds that there will be opportunities for expansion of select Cooper facilities.
For more information, Goodyear President, CEO and Chairman Rich Kramer gives a statement here.
