Illinois Tool Works’ (ITW) Decorative Surfaces business is to become a new, independent company operating as Wilsonart International, backed by Clayton, Dubilier & Rice (CD&R).  

A fund managed by CD&R will invest USD395m in the new freestanding business to acquire a majority ownership stake.  ITW will retain an ongoing ownership stake.

Wilsonart's business units manufacture and distribute high pressure laminates (HPL) and other fine surfacing materials and components used in furniture, office and retail space, countertops, worktops and other applications. Its brands include a leading HPL brand in the US, Canada, Mexico and Germany and one of the best known HPL brands in the UK, France, Spain, Benelux, China and Thailand. 

With 2011 revenue of USD1.1bn, the company operates under the Wilsonart, Resopal, Polyrey and Arborite brands, selling primarily through a network of company-owned and exclusive, independent distributors in North America and non-exclusive, independent distributors internationally.

"We believe this transaction creates a very strong foundation for Wilsonart to deliver continued industry-leading performance and are pleased to have ITW as our partner as we work with the Wilsonart management team to further build the value of the business," says CD&R partner Nathan K. Sleeper.

Paul Pressler, a CD&R operating partner, will assume the role of interim chief executive officer of Wilsonart upon the close of the transaction, expected in the fourth quarter.

"Wilsonart is extremely well-positioned for future growth," says Pressler. "We look forward to working with the management team to expand globally, invest in industry-leading innovation, service and distribution capabilities, and provide rewarding career opportunities for employees."

CD&R has obtained committed financing from Barclays, Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank, Goldman Sachs Bank USA, Morgan Stanley, and UBS Investment Bank.