GE Capital, Merrill Lynch and BNP Paribas have divvied up Atlantis Plastics' new $105 million credit facility. The facility is a club deal and is not being syndicated. The three lenders participated in Atlantis Plastics' previous credit line as well. "They have certainly stepped forward with supporting the company with their capital and they are good banks to work with," noted Paul Saari, cfo. Other lenders on the old credit include CIBC World Markets, John Hancock Life Insurance Co. and Orix Financial Services.
The credit comprises a $25 million revolver and $80 million term loan. The revolver will be undrawn at closing. Bear Stearns is also leading a $125 million senior subordinated notes offering. Proceeds from the bank facility and notes will refinance existing debt and pay a $118 million dividend to shareholders. Officials from the three banks either declined comment or did not return calls.