Alliant Techsystems Inc. filed a registration statement Wednesday with the Securities and Exchange Commission to spin off its hunting and shooting sports business to shareholders as a new stock trading under the name Vista Outdoor Inc.
The share distribution ratio and the applicable record date will be determined and publicly announced at a later date. ATK expects that the spin-off will be tax-free to U.S. stockholders. The spin-off will be immediately followed by a tax-free, all-stock merger between ATK's Aerospace and Defense Groups and Orbital Sciences Corporation. The spin-off is subject to Orbital stockholders approving the merger and ATK stockholders approving the issuance of ATK shares to Orbital stockholders in connection with the merger, and the satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.
The new publicly traded company will design, manufacture and market consumer products in the growing outdoor sports and recreation markets. ATK has selected Vista Outdoor as the company name to represent a portfolio of more than 30 well-recognized brands, its operations, its employees and its stockholders.
“The name 'Vista Outdoor' reflects our vision to be a leading provider in outdoor sports and recreation,” said Mark DeYoung, ATK President and Chief Executive Officer and future Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Vista Outdoor. “We will develop innovative and affordable products, grow our legacy brands and expand into complementary and adjacent markets. Our team will build on our strategic partnerships, continuously improve operations and deliver long-term shareholder value. Our mission is to leverage our experience and passion for our products to help the outdoor enthusiast achieve independence and success in the rugged domain of their choice. Vista Outdoor brands and products are for those who seek adventure, strive for achievement and enjoy the journey.”
Vista Outdoor will be headquartered in Utah, an outdoor recreation hub for manufacturers and recreational-equipment suppliers to the outdoor industry. Vista Outdoor generated approximately $2.3 billion in pro forma sales in fiscal year 2014. The company will have approximately 5,800 employees across the U.S. and internationally. Vista Outdoor expects to trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol VSTO. The company's widely known and respected brands include: Federal Premium, Bushnell, Savage Arms, Blackhawk!, Primos, Final Approach, Uncle Mike's, Hoppe's, RCBS, Alliant Powder, CCI, Speer, Champion Targets, Gold Tip Arrows, Weaver Optics, Outers, Bolle, Cebe, and Serengeti.
Morgan Stanley and BofA Merrill Lynch are acting as financial advisors and Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP is acting as legal advisor to ATK and Vista Outdoor in connection with this process.
