Complements strategic focus on end markets related to energy transition and sustainability
Strengthens balance sheet
Go-forward strategic cooperation agreement with GIP
TORONTO, March 1, 2023 /CNW/ - Aecon Group Inc. (TSX: ARE) ("Aecon" or the "Company") announced today that it has entered into a definitive purchase agreement with Green Infrastructure Partners Inc. ("GIP") under which Aecon has agreed to sell its Aecon Transportation East ("ATE") roadbuilding, aggregates and materials businesses in Ontario for $235 million in cash.
ATE provides roadbuilding infrastructure solutions throughout Ontario to the provincial government, municipalities, and private clients through a workforce of approximately 1,000 employees.
In 2022, ATE's revenue represented approximately 7% of Aecon's consolidated revenue as part of the Construction segment.
"Aecon's efforts are increasingly focused on helping meet its clients' sustainable infrastructure needs and harnessing the opportunities that are expected to come from the transition to a net zero economy through decarbonization," said Jean-Louis Servranckx, President and Chief Executive Officer, Aecon Group Inc. "This transaction is consistent with Aecon's goal of targeting prudent balance sheet leverage and liquidity and also reduces the overall capital intensity of Aecon's business."
Strategic Cooperation Agreement
Upon closing of the sale, Aecon and GIP will enter into a strategic cooperation agreement for certain major projects and pursuits in Ontario that leverage both Aecon's heavy civil construction services and GIP's roadbuilding capabilities.
Use of Proceeds
Upon closing, Aecon expects to use the net proceeds from the transaction to pay down debt on its revolving credit facility. Aecon plans to maintain a disciplined capital allocation approach focused on long-term shareholder value.
Approvals and Time to Close
The Aecon Board of Directors and the GIP Board of Directors have each approved the transaction. ATE will continue to operate in the normal course pending closing of the sale transaction which is expected in the first half of 2023 and is subject to customary adjustments and closing conditions, including obtaining all necessary regulatory approvals. In the event the transaction does not close as a result of GIP's failure to obtain financing for the acquisition, GIP has agreed to pay a reverse break-fee to Aecon of $15 million.
Advisors
CIBC Capital Markets is serving as exclusive financial advisor to Aecon, and Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP is serving as legal counsel.