Eastman to Acquire Solutia

Eastman Chemical Company and Solutia Inc. announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement, under which Eastman will acquire Solutia, a global leader in performance materials and specialty chemicals.

Under the terms of the agreement, Solutia stockholders will receive $22.00 in cash and 0.12 shares of Eastman common stock for each share of Solutia common stock. Based on closing prices on Jan. 26, 2012, Solutia shareholders will receive cash and stock valued at $27.65 per Solutia common share, representing a premium of 42 percent and a total transaction value of approximately $4.7 billion, including the assumption of Solutia’s debt.

“The acquisition of Solutia is a significant step in our growth strategy and one that I am confident will strengthen Eastman as a top-tier specialty chemical company with strong, stable margins,” said Jim Rogers, chairman and CEO of Eastman. “The addition of Solutia will broaden our geographic reach into emerging geographies, particularly Asia Pacific, establish a powerful combined platform with extensive organic growth opportunities, and expand our portfolio of sustainable products, all of which are consistent with our growth strategy.

“This transaction is also expected to deliver immediate value to our stockholders in the form of accretion and strong cash generation, as well as create potential upside through the combination of two leading global chemical companies,” said Mr. Rogers.

“This complementary transaction will accelerate the growth of our businesses around the world. The shared commitment to innovation, quality and technical service will allow us to better serve our customers and creates opportunity for our employees around the globe,” said Jeffry N. Quinn, chairman, president and CEO of Solutia. “This transaction provides Solutia’s shareholders with immediate value and an attractive premium, as well as the opportunity to benefit from the future prospects of a leading global chemicals producer with the financial strength, a diversified mix of premium products, and the geographic footprint to capitalize on long-term growth opportunities.”

“I commend the excellent management team and employees of Solutia. Over the past several years, Solutia has transformed itself into a financially strong, innovative performance materials and specialty chemicals company, with enviable market leading positions in virtually every market it serves,” added Mr. Rogers. “That, in addition to both companies’ success integrating prior acquisitions, gives me confidence we will achieve a smooth transition. We look forward to welcoming Solutia employees to Eastman.”

Eastman and Solutia share several key fundamentals, such as complementary technologies and business capabilities, a polymer science backbone, similar operating philosophies and a high performance culture. In addition, the overlap of key end-markets is expected to provide opportunities for growth.

This acquisition is also a significant step in Eastman’s strategy to extend its global presence in emerging markets. In particular, it should significantly accelerate Eastman’s growth efforts and offer excellent growth opportunities in Asia Pacific. By leveraging infrastructure in the region, Eastman expects to have a compound annual growth rate in Asia Pacific approaching 10 percent for the next several years.

The transaction, which was approved by the Boards of Directors of both companies, remains subject to approval by Solutia’s shareholders and receipt of required regulatory approvals as well as other customary closing conditions. The transaction is expected to close in mid-2012.