New York, June 15, 2004 – LAWFUEL – Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP, one of the world’s
leading law firms, advised United Industries Corporation with the
negotiation and execution of its definitive agreement to acquire United
Pet Group, Inc. (UPG) for $360 million.
United Industries Corporation, which goes to market as Spectrum Brands, is
the leading manufacturer and marketer of value-oriented products for
consumer lawn and garden care and insect control segments in the U.S.
Based in Cincinnati, Ohio, United Pet Group, Inc. is a leading
manufacturer and marketer of premium pet supplies products for dogs, cats,
fish, birds, and small animals. UPG is currently owned by TA Associates,
Friend Skoler & Co., LLC and management.
The transaction is expected to be financed through a combination of debt
and equity, with such financing commitments provided by Bank of America
and Thomas H. Lee Partners, respectively. Thomas H. Lee Partners is United
Industries’ largest investor.