The Toro Company has acquired privately-held Intimidator Group, based in Batesville, Ark.
The Intimidator Group designs and manufactures Spartan Mowers, a professional line of zero-turn mowers known for performance, durability and styling.
Sold through an established dealer network, Spartan Mowers has brand recognition in southern regions of the United States, appealing to rural markets and large acreage customers. Intimidator Group also designs and manufactures a line of versatile side-by-side utility vehicles that perform well in tough terrains.
“The addition of Spartan Mowers to our portfolio strategically positions us to be an even stronger player in the large and rapidly growing zero-turn mower market,” says Richard M. Olson, chairman and CEO of The Toro Company. “Spartan’s product lineup complements our innovative Exmark and Toro branded equipment and provides unique opportunities to further leverage technology and design, procurement and manufacturing efficiencies. We are confident the combined efforts of our teams will help advance our strategic priorities while providing unparalleled products, technologies and service to our customers. This move also reinforces our commitment to disciplined capital deployment, including prudent investments in our business, strategic acquisitions, dividend growth and share repurchases, all of which position us to deliver compelling shareholder returns long-term.”
The transaction has already received customary regulatory approvals.
“Our success and growth is the result of our dedicated team of employees, dealers and supply partners for which we are truly thankful and excited to be taking this next step in our journey together,” says Robert and Becky Foster, owners of Intimidator Group. “The Toro Company has a rich history and proven track record of growing brands with the resources to fuel our future growth. With a shared commitment to furthering innovation, serving customers and supporting our people and communities, we look forward to joining The Toro Company and continuing to provide best-in-class products and service to our customers.”
The purchase price was $400 million, which was paid with a combination of cash on hand and short-term borrowings under the company’s existing revolving credit facility. The Toro Company expects this acquisition to be modestly accretive to fiscal 2022 adjusted earnings excluding transaction and integration expenses.
For calendar year 2021, Intimidator Group net sales were approximately $200 million.
The Toro Company expects to provide updated full-year guidance that includes the acquisition of Intimidator Group when it reports its fiscal 2022 first quarter results.
