(Source: Business Wire)JohnsonDiversey, Inc. and Clayton Dubilier & Rice, Inc. ("CD&R") today announced an agreement under which a CD&R-managed fund will invest $477 million for a 46 percent equity interest in the company as part of a broader recapitalization transaction valued at $2.6 billion. The recapitalization will provide the company with the financial flexibility to accelerate growth in the global commercial cleaning and hygiene market. In addition to the CD&R fund investment, the transaction contemplates a debt financing package of approximately $1.9 billion.

With annual sales of more than $3.0 billion into more than 175 countries, JohnsonDiversey is a leading global provider of commercial cleaning, sanitation and hygiene solutions. The company serves commercial customers in the building, retail, healthcare and food and beverage sectors, as well as large, public sector clients such as the National Health Service in the U.K. and the State of New York. Among its private-sector customers are The Coca-Cola Company, PepsiCo., pharmaceutical retailer Walgreens and global facilities services provider ISS.

"JohnsonDiversey is a market leader providing innovative products and services to meet the needs of a world increasingly concerned about health and hygiene," said Richard J. Schnall, a CD&R partner. "The management team has positioned the company for future growth, and we look forward to working closely with them to continue building on the company's competitive strengths and creating an even more valuable enterprise over the long term."

Under the terms of the agreement, the Johnson Family of Racine, Wisconsin, will retain 50 percent ownership in the company, and S. Curtis Johnson will remain Chairman. CD&R Operating Partner James G. Berges will serve as Chairman of the Executive Committee. Unilever will also retain a 4% ownership interest in the company. JohnsonDiversey will continue under separate agreements to sell and distribute into the commercial market certain Unilever and S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. consumer-branded products.

"This is an exciting development in the evolution of our company," Mr. Johnson said. "The Johnson Family is pleased to move forward with a proven business builder and strong equity partner of CD&R's caliber. The firm's integrity, culture and values align well with our own."

JohnsonDiversey President and CEO Ed Lonergan added: "We've made great progress in recent years and continue to be our customers' partner of choice for superior and sustainable cleaning and hygiene solutions that protect human health and the environment.