The proposed transaction, which has a total value of approximately $1.1 billion, including the assumption of debt less Ainsworth's estimated cash balance, represents a premium for Ainsworth shareholders of 30% relative to the closing price of Ainsworth shares of C$2.89 and 24% to the volume weighted average trading price of Ainsworth shares on the TSX over the past 20 trading days as of September 3, 2013. The proposed transaction has the unanimous support of the Ainsworth Board of Directors. Additionally, private equity funds managed by Brookfield Asset Management Inc., which own 54% of Ainsworth, have entered into an agreement to vote in favor of the transaction.
"This is an excellent transaction that makes LP more valuable for our customers and our shareholders," said Curt Stevens, LP's CEO. "Ainsworth has very high quality assets and provides us with an expanded suite of strand-based products and technologies, additional access to key international growth markets, particularly in Asia, and enhanced scale and efficiencies in North America. We have great respect for Ainsworth and its people, and we intend to take the best of both companies to create a leading provider of strand-based products that is well positioned to meet the evolving needs of customers in North America and abroad."
Added Mr. Stevens: "The APA consensus projection for U.S. housing starts for the full year 2013 is 957,000, an increase of 23% from 2012. For 2014, the consensus projection is approximately 1.2 million starts. We believe the acquisition of Ainsworth provides LP with greater flexibility and exposure to this recovery."
Ainsworth's CEO Jim Lake said, "This transaction provides immediate value and liquidity to our shareholders as well as the opportunity to participate in LP's continued growth as a global leader in strand-based products and technologies. For our people, this will bring even greater financial strength to the business and the opportunity to become an important part of a well-resourced, innovative company with an excellent operational track record and an uncompromising commitment to safety."
Ainsworth is a leading manufacturer and marketer of oriented strand board ("OSB") with a focus on value-added specialty products for markets in North America and Asia.
Louisiana-Pacific Corporation is a leading manufacturer of quality engineered wood building materials including OSB, structural framing products, and exterior siding for use in residential, industrial and light commercial construction.
