Taj Noteholders and Fung Retailing Reach Agreement to Partner on Toys “R” Us Asia Business
Toys “R” Us Asia announced that the approximate 85% interest in Toys (Labuan) Holding Limited (the “Company”) will be acquired by the holders of its parent company TRU Taj LLC’s Senior Secured Notes (the “Taj Noteholders”).
The Taj Noteholders and Fung Retailing Limited (“Fung Retailing”), the owner of approximately 15% of the Company, have agreed to new partnership terms in a transaction which values the Company at approximately US$900 million.
As part of this transaction, Fung Retailing will acquire, at the transaction value, an incremental 6% of the Company from the Taj Noteholders, thereby increasing Fung Retailing’s ownership to approximately 21% of the Company, making it the largest shareholder in the Company.
This transaction facilitates the separation of the Asian business from its ultimate parent Toys “R” Us, Inc. and positions the Company well for an exciting new chapter of growth.
The Taj Noteholders includes several investment funds and financial institutions with extensive experience investing in and owning international businesses and retail companies.
A spokesperson for the Taj Noteholders commented, “This transaction is a significant step in separating the valuable and growing Toys “R” Us Asia operation from the rest of the business. The Company’s growth prospects in Greater China, Japan and Southeast Asia are bright and we are excited about investing in and owning the Company in partnership with Fung Retailing.”
Mr. Pieter Schats, Executive Director of Fung Retailing, commented, “Since introducing Toys “R” Us to Hong Kong in 1986, Fung Retailing has played an integral role in the successful growth and development of Toys “R” Us in Asia. As a sign of the confidence we have in the management team and future success of Toys “R” Us in the region, we are pleased to increase our shareholding in the Company, reflecting our commitment to support Toys “R” Us Asia in reaching new heights.”
The Company will continue to be led by its current President & CEO, Mr. Andre Javes and his experienced management team, who have consistently and successfully built the business across the Asia region.
In addition, the Company will be making a significant investment in technology to boost its infrastructure for the future. The Company sources toy, education and baby products from across the globe, with significant emphasis on quality, safety and trust.
“We are committed to remaining the leading specialty retailer of toy, education and baby products in Asia by driving innovation and quality through our products and services,” Javes added. “The conclusion of the sale process brings clarity to the Company’s ownership and we look forward to strengthening and leveraging our partnerships with our vendors and commercial stakeholders. Our shareholders’ investment is a huge vote of confidence in our vision, our team and our winning model.”
