NORWALK, Conn. & LEXINGTON, Ky. – Xerox (NASDAQ:XRX) Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: XRX) and Lexmark International, Inc. have announced a definitive agreement whereby Xerox will acquire Lexmark for $1.5 billion, including assumed liabilities. The transaction is anticipated to close in the second half of 2025, subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals.
The acquisition is expected to bolster Xerox's core print portfolio and expand its managed print services business, aligning with the demands of the evolving hybrid workplace. This strategic move comes as Xerox, a prominent player in the Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals industry, seeks to reverse its recent revenue decline of 9.76% over the last twelve months. Xerox CEO Steve Bandrowczak stated that the merger of the two industry leaders will drive long-term profitable growth and better serve clients.
Lexmark, a key supplier to Xerox, is recognized for its innovative imaging solutions and printers. The integration of Lexmark’s technologies with Xerox’s ConnectKey technology and services is set to enhance their product offerings. This move aims to strengthen Xerox’s position in the A4 color market and diversify its distribution, particularly in the APAC region.
The combined entity will serve over 200,000 clients across 170 countries and operate 125 manufacturing and distribution facilities in 16 countries. Both companies hold a top-five global share in entry, mid, and production print markets, as well as managed print services.
Financially, the acquisition is projected to be immediately accretive to Xerox’s earnings per share and free cash flow. Xerox anticipates over $200 million in cost synergies within two years of the transaction's closing. The company also expects to improve its gross debt leverage ratio, with a medium-term target of below 3.0x.
Xerox will finance the acquisition through cash on hand and committed debt financing. Concurrently, the Xerox Board of Directors has approved a dividend policy change, halving the annual dividend from $1 per share to 50 cents, effective with the dividend expected in the first quarter of 2025.
While awaiting the transaction's completion, both Xerox and Lexmark will continue to operate independently. With a current gross profit margin of 32.17% and significant free cash flow generation, Xerox demonstrates operational resilience despite recent market challenges. Lexmark President and CEO Allen Waugerman expressed enthusiasm for joining forces with Xerox to reach a broader market with their combined capabilities. Discover more detailed financial metrics and 12 additional ProTips about Xerox's performance by visiting InvestingPro.
Financial advisors for the deal include Jefferies LLC and Citi for Xerox, and Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS) & Co. LLC and Strait Capital Management for Lexmark and Ninestar Corporation. Legal advisors are Ropes & Gray LLP and Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP for Xerox, and Dechert LLP for Lexmark and Ninestar Corporation.
This announcement is based on a press release statement.
In other recent news, Xerox has made significant strides in diversifying its business portfolio. The company recently completed the acquisition of ITsavvy, a deal valued at $400 million, which is expected to strengthen its position in the IT services market. The transaction involved a cash payment of $180 million and the issuance of two secured promissory notes totaling $220 million.
In terms of financial performance, Xerox reported a 7.5% decrease in third-quarter revenue to $1.5 billion and a drop in adjusted earnings per share to $0.25. However, the company managed to reduce its operating expenses by over $50 million year-over-year, and the adjusted operating margin improved by 110 basis points to 5.2%.
Loop Capital has revised its outlook on Xerox, reducing its price target from $11.00 to $8.00, while maintaining a Hold rating. This adjustment followed Xerox's recent earnings release and is a response to operational challenges encountered by the company.
Despite the operational challenges, Xerox remains committed to providing value to its shareholders, as evidenced by the declaration of a quarterly dividend for its common and preferred stock, with the common stock dividend set at $0.25 per share. These are the recent developments in Xerox's ongoing efforts to adapt to market demands and provide value to its shareholders.
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