Herman Miller signs agreement to acquire Knoll

USA – Herman Miller, Inc. and Knoll Inc. announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which Herman Miller will acquire Knoll in a cash and stock transaction valued at USD 1.8 billion.

The transaction, which has been unanimously approved by the Boards of Directors of both companies, is expected to close by the end of the third quarter of calendar year 2021, subject to the satisfaction of closing conditions.

Under the terms of the agreement, Knoll shareholders will receive USD 11.00 in cash and 0.32 shares of Herman Miller common stock for each share of Knoll common stock they own. Upon completion of the transaction, Herman Miller shareholders will own approximately 78% of the combined company and Knoll shareholders will own approximately 22%.

This highly complementary combination will create the preeminent leader in modern design, catalyzing the transformation of the home and office sectors at a time of unprecedented disruption. Herman Miller and Knoll collectively have 19 leading brands, presence across over 100 countries worldwide, a global dealer network, 64 showrooms globally, more than 50 physical retail locations and global multi-channel eCommerce capabilities. The combined company will have annual revenue of approximately USD 3.6 billion and adjusted EBITDA of approximately USD 552 million, based on each company’s respective last reported 12 months and including the anticipated USD 100 million of cost synergies, implying adjusted EBITDA margins of approximately 16%.

“This transaction brings together two pioneering icons of design with strong businesses, attractive portfolios and long histories of innovation,” said Andi Owen, President and Chief Executive Officer of Herman Miller. “As distributed working models become the new normal for companies, businesses are reimagining the office to foster collaboration, culture and focused work, while supporting a growing remote employee base. At the same time, consumers are making significant investments in their homes. With a broad portfolio, global footprint and advanced digital capabilities, we will be poised to meet our customers everywhere they live and work. Together, we will offer a deep portfolio of brands, technology, talent and innovation, to create meaningful growth opportunities in all areas of the combined business.”