KKR(US:KKR) 仪器信息网·2025-08-11 04:00Core Viewpoint - Spectris plc reported a robust performance in the first half of 2025, with growth in orders and sales, alongside significant cost savings from efficiency initiatives. The board has recommended shareholders accept KKR's acquisition offer of £41.75 per share, which includes a declared interim dividend of 28 pence [1][3][20]. Financial and Operational Summary - Orders increased by 5% year-on-year, with a notable 15% growth in the second quarter [2][3]. - Sales grew by 8% year-on-year, with a 20% increase in the second quarter [3]. - Cost savings from the efficiency program exceeded £10 million in the first half, with expectations to surpass £30 million for the full year [3][6]. - Adjusted operating profit stood at £65.6 million, flat compared to the previous year, while statutory operating profit was £24.8 million, a 3% increase [3][27]. - Net debt was reported at £546 million, with a target leverage ratio of 1 to 2 times by the end of 2025 [3][6]. Acquisition Progress - KKR's acquisition proposal timeline includes: - June 5, 2025: KKR's initial proposal was rejected by the board [8]. - June 9, 2025: Advent made a conditional cash offer of £37.63 per share [9]. - June 23, 2025: Advent's offer was accepted, initiating exclusive due diligence [10]. - July 2, 2025: KKR submitted a revised offer of £40.00 per share [14]. - August 5, 2025: KKR's final offer of £41.75 per share was made, which the board recommended [18][20]. - Shareholder vote scheduled for August 27, 2025, with expected completion of the transaction in Q1 2026 [21][22]. Strategic Developments - The CEO highlighted the successful strategic transformation since 2018, focusing on high-growth, high-margin business segments [5][24]. - The efficiency program is on track to deliver over £30 million in cost savings, with two-thirds expected in the second half of 2025 [6][26]. - The integration of recent acquisitions is yielding significant synergies, enhancing revenue potential and operational efficiency [26][50]. Financial Performance Breakdown - Total orders for the first half reached £646.3 million, with a 5% year-on-year increase [28]. - Sales for the first half were £636.1 million, reflecting an 8% increase [27][28]. - The adjusted operating margin was 10.3%, with a cash conversion rate of 126% [27][47]. - The performance varied by sector, with strong growth in academic and materials sectors, while automotive and semiconductor sectors faced declines [29][30][42]. Regional and Sector Analysis - Orders in Europe and North America decreased, but growth in Asia partially offset this decline [31]. - Sales performance showed slight growth in Europe and Asia, while North America experienced a minor decline [32][34]. - The Spectris Scientific segment saw a 17% increase in orders and a 21% increase in sales, while the Spectris Dynamics segment experienced a 3% decline in orders [36][42].