Topps Company acquired by Tornante Comp. and Madison Dearborn Partners

The Topps Company, Inc. announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by Michael Eisner s The Tornante Company LLC and Madison Dearborn Partners, LLC, a leading private equity firm. Under the terms of the agreement, Topps stockholders will receive USD 9.75 per share in cash, for a total transaction value of approximately USD 385.4 m. The Board of Directors of Topps has approved the merger agreement and has resolved to recommend that Topps stockholders adopt the agreement.


Arthur T. Shorin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Topps, said: "This will be a change in ownership, not a change in direction. We look forward to working with an experienced group of investors who understand the creative aspects of our business and are committed to our continued growth."
Scott A. Silverstein, President and Chief Operating Officer of Topps, adds: "We have realized dramatic changes in our business and have taken numerous actions to implement our strategic plan. We look forward to working with our new owners to address the challenges that lie ahead, as we continue to grow the business."


Founded in 1938, Topps is a leading creator and marketer of sports and related cards, entertainment products, and distinctive confectionery. Topps entertainment products include Major League Baseball, NFL, NBA and other trading cards, sticker album collections, and collectible games. The company s confectionery brands include "Bazooka" bubble gum, "Ring Pop," "Push Pop," "Baby Bottle Pop" and "Juicy Drop Pop" lollipops. Headquartered in New York City, the company has worldwide distribution, annual net sales for Fiscal 2006 of $293.8 m and employs over 487 people worldwide.
www.topps.com.