Samsonite International and Tumi Holdings has announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement whereby Samsonite will acquire Tumi for US$26.75 per share in an all cash transaction, valuing Tumi at an equity value of US$1.8 billion.

“This is a transformational acquisition for Samsonite.

“It will meaningfully expand our presence in the highly attractive premium segment of the global business bags, travel luggage and accessories market,” said Ramesh Tainwala, chief executive, Samsonite.

“Tumi is a perfect strategic fit for our business.

“The brand is beloved by millions of loyal customers for its high quality and durable premium business and luggage products.

“We are excited about the tremendous opportunities this combination provides us to further diversify our product and customer portfolios.

“In particular, we will expand Tumi’s presence in Asia and Europe, while strengthening its business in North America, by leveraging our expertise in global distribution, sourcing, product design and technical innovation, especially in the area of lightweight hardside luggage.”

The deal creates a leading global travel lifestyle company.

The combination brings together Tumi, an iconic North American purveyor of premium business bags, travel luggage and accessories, with Samsonite, the world’s best known and largest lifestyle bag and travel luggage company, to create a leading global travel lifestyle company.

Tumi chief executive Jerome Griffith said: “This is an exciting day for Tumi and all the travellers around the world who count on us.

“The team at Samsonite has a long and successful track record when it comes to acquisitions and we know they will be excellent stewards of the Tumi brand.

“Samsonite will bring Tumi to new and growing markets, while still maintaining the high quality Tumi is known for.

“This is a compelling transaction that delivers substantial and immediate cash value to our shareholders.

“Further, we are excited for our employees to benefit from opportunities presented by being part of a larger and more diversified global company.

“Samsonite has successfully grown many unique brands and we look forward to the next chapter in Tumi’s great history as part of the Samsonite family.”