After much anticipation, easyJet (LSE:EZJ), the fast-growing European low-cost airline, has announced today details of a proposed Acquisition of Go.

easyJet has entered into a conditional agreement to acquire the entire issued share capital, and to repay certain loans and other obligations, of Go for a total of £374 million, representing an enterprise value of £257.6 million, after taking into account £116.4 million of net cash on the Go balance sheet as at 31 March 2002

The Acquisition and related expenses will be funded as to £276.7 million from the proceeds of a Rights Issue on the basis of 4 Rights Issue Shares for every 11 existing Ordinary Shares at an issue price of 265p per Rights Issue Share and as to £113.3 million from the Enlarged Group`s cash resources
Go is a profitable and established business with strong growth prospects. In the year to 31 March 2002, Go flew 4.3 million passengers generating revenue of £233.7 million and profits before tax of £17.0 million (excluding the impact of a share option expense of £2.96 million)

The Acquisition will transform easyJet by substantially enhancing its scale and growth potential
The Acquisition is expected by the Directors of easyJet to enhance easyJet`s earnings per share, as adjusted for the Rights Issue and before amortisation of goodwill, in the financial year ending 30 September 2003

Stelios Haji-Ioannou
, Chairman of easyJet, commented:

“This is one of the most exciting developments in easyJet`s history and offers the potential to create substantial value for our shareholders. The Acquisition will contribute significantly to our objective to become Europe`s leading low-cost airline by strengthening our position in important target markets, increasing our management strength and providing a larger, stronger platform from which to exploit growth opportunities profitably.”

Ray Webster
, Chief Executive Officer of easyJet, said:
“The European low-cost airline market has grown significantly in the last few years, providing us with many opportunities. Combining easyJet and Go will provide additional critical mass and enable us to move forward faster.

“Both airlines are built on common business models. These models encompass similar values, cultures and fleets and we intend to take the best people and working practices of both companies to create a low-cost airline with the scale and capabilities to capitalise on any opportunity in Europe.

“Both companies have reached this stage of maturity through the vision and dedication of their employees, who will have a continued and vital role in the continuing story.”

Barbara Cassani
, Chief Executive of Go, commented:

“easyJet`s acquisition is a tremendous compliment to all of us at Go on our achievements since starting up four years ago. I`m particularly pleased that everyone at Go will share in the rewards from our success. I know that my colleagues at Go will contribute enormously to the success of the combined group.”

EasyJet has confirmed that the Go logo and livery will be replaced by the Easyjet brand
Related stories on ITN:

(10/05/2002) easyJet Soaring to New Heights

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