New Look Vision Group Inc. announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire all of the issued and outstanding shares of Iris. Founded in 1990 by Dr. Francis Jean in Baie-Comeau, Quebec and based in Laval, Quebec, Iris has grown to become a leading optometrist based retail eye care provider across Canada with a network of 150 locations, comprising 53 corporate, 77 jointly owned and 20 franchise locations. The Iris banner is recognized nationally with locations in Quebec (82), British Columbia (36), Alberta (16), Ontario (15) and New Brunswick (1).
Antoine Amiel, President and Director of New Look Vision stated that: “We feel very privileged to welcome the Iris team into our organization. The transaction will be a major step forward for both organizations. Iris, based in Laval (QC) and Langley (BC), will operate as a stand-alone business unit within New Look Vision Group. Iris adds to New Look Vision Group’s current network a strong platform for the consolidation of the optometry based retail segment of the Canadian optical industry.
The combined entity will have estimated annual system-wide revenues exceeding $315 million, estimated consolidated annual revenues exceeding $265 million and a store network in excess of 375 locations reinforcing New Look Vision Group’s position as the largest Canadian retail optical company and the 8th largest in North America. We will be the dominant player in Quebec, the Atlantic Provinces and British Columbia. This should lead to greater efficiencies and lower operating costs in many areas of operations”.
Dr. Michael Chaiken, President of Iris stated that: “A relationship of trust built over many years between the management teams of Iris and New Look Vision has evolved today into a common endeavour. The two businesses have been highly successful by sharing common values of hard work and integrity, dedication to eye care, and a passion for retail optical. Joining New Look Vision Group, we, at Iris, are very much looking forward to fulfilling Dr Jean’s vision of collaborative eye care for Canadians”.
The acquisition of Iris is expected to close on or about October 1, 2017, subject to customary closing conditions, at which time the 1,616,000 subscription receipts issued pursuant to the private placements are expected to be automatically exchanged into 1,616,000 Class A Common Shares of New Look Vision.
The purchase price for the shares of Iris is $120 million on a cash-free and debt-free basis, subject to customary price adjustments. New Look Vision has entered into various financing agreements to finance the acquisition, including: (i) a $38.75 million increase of its senior secured term facility with its bank to $95 million; (ii) an arrangement for a $35 million junior unsecured debt facility and a $20 million equity private placement of 646,400 subscription receipts at a price of $30.94 per subscription receipt with a Quebec-based fund; and (iii) a $30 million concurrent equity private placement of 969,600 subscription receipts at a price of $30.94 per subscription receipt. Each newly issued subscription receipt will entitle the holder thereof, subject to certain conditions and without payment of additional consideration, to receive one Class A Common Share of New Look Vision. The private placements are expected to close on or about July 18, 2017 and are subject to the receipt of all necessary approvals, including the approval of the Toronto Stock Exchange.
Click HERE for the full press release.
Click HERE to view a list of recent IRIS acquisitions.
Click HERE to read more on the changing optical retail landscape in Canada.
