Moretrench is an employee-owned geotechnical contracting company operating predominantly along the east coast of the US. Keller is making the announcement about the potential acquisition as the fact that discussions are ongoing is now being communicated to a much wider group of Moretrench employees.
In 2016 Moretrench had revenue of US$170m (拢125m), operating profit of US$9.3m and earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) of US$13.9m, excluding US$2.3m of charges relating directly to the employee share ownership plan.
It is envisaged that the acquisition, should it proceed, will be funded wholly in cash using existing borrowing facilities.
鈥淭he enlarged entity will represent by far the most capable geotechnical solutions provider on the east coast and will be very well positioned for the expected long run renewal of infrastructure,鈥� said Keller. 鈥淚n addition, the acquisition gives Keller access to new niche geotechnical products as well as new industrial customers and should have good revenue and cost synergies. Keller and Moretrench have partnered on a number of successful project JVs in the past which gives confidence in the mutual compatibility of culture and management approaches.鈥�
The acquisition remains subject to the satisfactory completion of due diligence.聽聽聽
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