Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) announced today that it has entered a definitive agreement to acquire Kaman Music Corporation (KMC). FMIC agreed to purchase Kaman Music Corp., a wholly owned subsidiary of parent company Kaman Corp. (NASDAQ-GM: KAMN) for approximately $117 million in cash, subject to specified post-closing purchase price adjustments. Closing is expected to occur prior to January 1, 2008.
Kaman Music Corp. is the preeminent independent U.S. distributor of musical instruments and accessories, offering more than 20,000 products for amateurs and professionals. KMC owns Ovation Guitars, LP and Toca hand percussion products, Gibraltar Hardware, Genz Benz Amplification, Hamer Guitars, and is the exclusive U.S. sales representative for Sabian Cymbals, and exclusive worldwide distributor of Takamine Guitars and Gretsch Drums.
“We are delighted to welcome the Kaman Music Corporation into the Fender Family,” said Bill Mendello, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Fender Musical Instruments Corp. “KMC is one of the most respected companies in the musical instrument industry. We have very similar cultures that have been developed over many years. The distribution expertise that Kaman Music brings to the music marketplace will complement and strengthen FMIC’s service to its dealers and consumers.”
Kaman Music Corporation will continue to be led by current President, Edward Miller. Miller has 35 years of experience with Kaman, having joined the company in 1972 and later serving as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. He was appointed President of Kaman Music Corp. in June of 2007.