Saughter and May is advising Reckitt Benckiser Group plc (“Reckitt”) on the divestment of its Essential Home business to Advent International Limited (“Advent”), a leading global private equity investor. The sale marks a significant step in Reckitt’s strategy to reshape into a more efficient, world-class consumer health and hygiene company.
The transaction values the Essential Home business at an enterprise value of up to US$4.8 billion, which includes up to c. US$1.3 billion of contingent and deferred consideration. As part of the transaction, Reckitt will retain an interest in Essential Home through a 30% equity stake in Advent’s acquisition vehicle.
The Essential Home portfolio includes global brands such as Air Wick, Calgon, Woolite, Cillit Bang, Resolve, Sole and Easy-Off, as well as around 75 other brands across over 70 markets. Essential Home will also own the Mortein brand in North America, Europe and LATAM. Additionally, Reckitt’s interest in six manufacturing plants will transfer with Essential Home.
The transaction is expected to complete by 31 December 2025 following completion of key elements of separation of Essential Home from Reckitt’s core business, and subject to applicable employment-related consultations and customary regulatory approvals.