November 16, 2007
On November 15, it was announced that Willkie client Aearo Technologies Inc., a leading supplier of safety products, agreed to be acquired by 3M Company for $1.2 billion. Willkie advised Aearo with respect to respirator liabilities, which was a significant component of the deal, and on antitrust and other matters. The deal calls for 3M to purchase Indianapolis-based Aearo with cash and debt furnished by funds advised by London-based buyout firm Permira as well as company management. Aearo is one of the world's leading manufacturers and marketers of a broad range of personal protective equipment including hearing and eye protection and respirators. The matter was handled by partner E. Donald Elliott and associates Bret Cohen, Sanjay Narayan, and Ari Altman, with assistance from partner Barry Nigro.