Sharjah 24 – SPA: Saudi Arabian Oil Company (Aramco) Monday announced the signing of an equity purchase agreement to acquire Valvoline Inc. (NYSE: VVV) global products business (“Valvoline Global Products” or “VGP”) for US$2.65 billion.

According to Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the transaction is subject to certain customary adjustments set forth in the equity purchase agreement.

Valvoline Global Products is a leading worldwide independent producer and distributor of premium branded automotive, commercial and industrial lubricants, and automotive chemicals.

Aramco will benefit from VGP’s robust manufacturing and distribution network, significant R&D capabilities, strong partnerships with major OEMs, and a 150-year legacy of global brand recognition as it pursues opportunities to extend the brand globally. The strategic acquisition will complement Aramco’s line of premium branded lubricant products, optimize its global base oils production capabilities, and expand Aramco’s own R&D activities and partnerships with OEMs.

Mohammed Y. Al Qahtani, Aramco Senior Vice President of Downstream, said: “Valvoline’s global products business fits perfectly with Aramco’s growth strategy for lubricants as it will leverage our global base oils production, contribute to our R&D capabilities and strengthen our existing relationships with OEMs.”

Sam Mitchell, Valvoline CEO said “The sale of Global Products represents the successful outcome of our strategy to unlock the full, long-term value of our strong but differentiated Retail Services and Global Products businesses.”

Completion of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including the receipt of regulatory approvals.