Kimberly-Clark Corporation and Kenvue have announced an agreement under which Kimberly-Clark will acquire all of the outstanding shares of Kenvue common stock in a cash and stock transaction that values Kenvue at an enterprise value of approximately $48.7bn.
This purchase brings together two iconic American companies to create a combined portfolio of complementary products, including 10 billion-dollar brands, that nearly half of the global population interacts with through every stage of life.
The combined company, with teams of talented people around the globe, will harness a superior commercial engine to unlock the full potential of the combination and better meet the evolving needs of consumers.
"We are excited to bring together two iconic companies to create a global health and wellness leader," said Mike Hsu, Kimberly-Clark Chair and CEO.
"Kenvue is uniquely positioned at the intersection of CPG and healthcare, with exceptional talent and a differentiated brand offering serving attractive consumer health categories."
"With a shared commitment to developing science and technology to provide extraordinary care, we will serve billions of consumers across every stage of life.
"During the last several years, Kimberly-Clark has undertaken a significant transformation to pivot our portfolio to higher-growth, higher-margin businesses while rewiring our organisation to work smarter and faster."
"We have built the foundation and this transaction is a powerful next step in our journey. We look forward to working with the Kenvue team to bring these companies together and are confident that we will drive significant value for our combined shareholders," continued Hsu.
Larry Merlo, Kenvue Chair of the Board, added, "Following the Board's comprehensive review of strategic alternatives for Kenvue, we are pleased to have reached this agreement with Kimberly-Clark that delivers significant upfront value for our shareholders and substantial upside potential through ownership in the combined company."
"Bringing together Kenvue and Kimberly-Clark creates a uniquely positioned global leader in consumer health with a broader range of new growth opportunities ahead."
"We are excited about this next chapter for Kenvue and confident this combination represents the best path forward for our shareholders and all other stakeholders."
"Our combination with Kimberly-Clark unites two highly complementary portfolios filled with iconic, beloved brands and everyday essentials that people trust and count on throughout their lives," said Kirk Perry, CEO of Kenvue.
"Our teams share a passion for delivering science-backed solutions that play a meaningful role in homes and communities around the world. "
"Together, our combined strengths, expanded capabilities and resources and broader reach will empower us to innovate even faster and strengthen our category leadership."
"We truly believe this transaction with Kimberly-Clark will bring greater value to our shareholders, create new and different potential growth opportunities for our talented employees and deliver even more benefits to our customers and consumers."
Mike Hsu will be the Chair and CEO of the combined company.
At closing, three members of the Kenvue Board will join the Kimberly-Clark Board.
The combined company will maintain Kimberly-Clark's headquarters in Irving, Texas and continue to have a significant presence in Kenvue's locations.