Clearlake Capital Group L.P. announced on Monday a definitive agreement to acquire Dun & Bradstreet Holdings Inc. (NYSE: DNB) for $7.7 billion, including debt. The deal, which offers $9.15 per share in cash, values the Jacksonville-based business data firm’s equity at $4.1 billion.
Buyout Terms and Valuation
The $9.15-per-share cash offer represents a premium to Dun & Bradstreet’s closing price of $8.73 on March 21. The stock had already been trading higher prior to reports of acquisition talks in August 2024.
The agreement includes a 30-day “go-shop” period, allowing Dun & Bradstreet to solicit and consider higher offers. Should no competing bids emerge, the deal is expected to close later this year, subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals.
Leadership and Future Plans
Clearlake Capital, based in Santa Monica, California, confirmed that Dun & Bradstreet CEO Anthony Jabbour will remain in his role, signaling continuity in leadership.
“We are excited to partner with Anthony and his team to support the company in unlocking its full potential,” Clearlake partners said in a statement.
Jabbour expressed optimism about the acquisition, highlighting the company’s transformation over the past six years.
“We have grown revenue by approximately 40%, EBITDA by 60%, expanded margins by nearly 600 basis points, and reduced leverage from 9 times to 3.6 times,” he said.
Jabbour added that Clearlake’s backing will accelerate innovation and growth by expanding the company’s proprietary data assets and client solutions.
Dun & Bradstreet’s Evolution
Founded in 1841, Dun & Bradstreet moved its headquarters to Jacksonville, Florida in 2021 after its 2019 acquisition by a group led by Fidelity National Financial Inc. Chairman Bill Foley. Following the buyout, Foley’s group took the company public in 2020.
In 2021, Dun & Bradstreet acquired the 218,700-square-foot Town Center Two building at 5335 Gate Parkway for its new headquarters. Despite the acquisition by Clearlake, no immediate plans for relocation have been announced.
A Strategic Move Amid Industry Consolidation
The acquisition comes as business data and analytics firms see rising demand for data-driven insights and services. By joining forces with Clearlake, Dun & Bradstreet aims to enhance its competitive position and expand its product offerings.
Looking Ahead
With a premium cash offer and a strong growth trajectory, the deal is expected to benefit both shareholders and clients. Investors will be watching the go-shop period closely for any competing offers, while employees and customers anticipate the next phase of the company’s expansion under Clearlake’s ownership.
