Core Insights - Vertiv has announced an agreement to acquire Great Lakes Data Racks & Cabinets for $200 million, aiming to strengthen its leadership in high-density integrated infrastructure offerings [1][2] - The acquisition is expected to enhance Vertiv's ability to deliver AI-ready rack solutions optimized for various computing markets, including enterprise, edge, colocation, and hyperscale AI [2][4] Financial Overview - The purchase price represents approximately 11.5 times the expected 2026 EBITDA, factoring in cost synergies and cross-selling opportunities [2] - The transaction is anticipated to close in the third quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals [5] Company Background - Great Lakes, established in 1985 and headquartered in Edinboro, PA, operates manufacturing and assembly facilities in the U.S. and Europe, offering a range of data rack enclosures and integrated infrastructure solutions [3] - The acquisition will enhance Vertiv's end-to-end critical digital infrastructure offerings, providing a comprehensive set of products and services for data center needs [3][4] Strategic Implications - The integration of Great Lakes' expertise with Vertiv's existing portfolio is expected to deliver significant customer benefits, including faster deployment, enhanced operational efficiency, and improved scalability for AI and edge computing applications [4] - Vertiv aims to position itself as a premier technology solutions provider in the critical white space market through this acquisition [4]