Lear Corporation has said that the solicitation period under its merger agreement with American Real Estate Partners (AREP), an affiliate of Carl Icahn, has expired, without it having received an acquisition proposal from another party.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


As permitted by the merger agreement, Lear will continue on-going discussions with those parties who had expressed an interest in exploring a possible acquisition proposal prior to the expiration of the solicitation period, the components maker said in a statement.


“No assurance can be given that such discussions will result in an alternative acquisition proposal,” Lear said.


Lear also said that a US statutory waiting period for the review of the proposed merger with AREP has now expired.


Lear is one of the world’s largest suppliers of automotive interior systems and components with annual net sales of $US17.8bn in 2006.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Earlier this month, its board recommended that shareholders vote in favour of a buyout offer valued at about $US2.8bn from a group affiliated with billionaire investor Icahn.


Under an agreement proposed in February, Icahn-controlled American Real Estate Partners is paying $US36 a share, and Lear has said that amounts to about $2.8bn. The buyers would also assume about $2.5bn in debt.

Just Auto Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Auto Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving automotive industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now