DEUTSCH Announces Strategic Acquisition

NEW YORK, January 2, 2008
Deutsch, a leading manufacturer of electrical connectors for the Industrial Vehicles, Mil Aero, Transportation and Oil & Gas markets, announced today that it has entered into a strategic arrangement with WESCO International Inc. where Deutsch has acquired a 60% ownership of WESCO’s LADD operations for approximately $75M. LADD is engaged in the distribution of specialized “heavy-duty industrial connectors” and has been the exclusive distributor of Deutsch connectors in the United States for over 20 years. In 2007, LADD achieved annual sales of approximately $100M. Deutsch and WESCO will work together to further penetrate the existing customers in the specialized heavy-duty connector market, and to accelerate growth in new market segments and new products.

Under the terms of the agreement, Deutsch and WESCO will operate under a joint venture agreement whereby Deutsch owns 60% of LADD Industries, and is entitled, but not obliged, to acquire the remaining 40% at any time after the second anniversary of the date of closing.

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DEUTSCH, founded in the United States in 1938, is a global company employing approximately 3,500 people worldwide. Its main markets are in the United States and Europe, with two main operating Divisions, Deutsch Industrial (DI) and Deutsch Aerospace & Transportation (DAT). DEUTSCH is a world leader in the field of high performance connectors used in Industrial Vehicles, Mil Aero, Transportation and Oil & Gas markets, with global sales of more than $600M in 2007. In recent years, Deutsch’s innovation and focus on its clients have led to significant growth.
Jean-Marie PAINVIN, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DEUTSCH, states, “the acquisition of LADD Industries, represents a strategic investment for DEUTSCH to reinforce our Distribution network in order to better serve our Customers”.


Deutsch was advised by:
Houlihan Lokey – Exclusive Financial Advisor
O’Melveny & Myers – Legal Advisor
Ernst & Young – Accounting
The Royal Bank of Scotland - Financing
 

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