Jo-Ann Stores to be acquired for $1.6 billion

HUDSON, Ohio -Jo-Ann Stores announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to be acquired by an affiliate of Leonard Green & Partners, L.P., for a total price of approximately $1.6 billion, or $61 per share in cash. The offer price represents a 34% premium to the closing price of Jo-Ann’s shares on Dec. 22.

The board of directors of Jo-Ann Stores, on the recommendation of a special committee comprised entirely of independent directors, approved the merger agreement by a unanimous vote of the non-employee directors and recommends that the company’s shareholders adopt the agreement.

Darrell Webb, chairman and chief executive officer of Jo-Ann Stores, commented, “We are excited about the prospect of working with Leonard Green & Partners as we further capitalize on opportunities to accelerate the expansion and upgrade of our stores and pursue market share gains. With the help of our talented and dedicated team, we will continue to offer our customers a superior shopping experience for all of their fabric and craft needs.”

If the acquisition is approved by the holders of a majority of Jo-Ann Stores’ shares of common stock, the transaction is expected to close in the first half of calendar 2011. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including the receipt of regulatory approvals, but is not subject to any condition with regard to the financing of the transaction. In accordance with the merger agreement, the board of directors will also be permitted to solicit alternative proposals through Feb. 14, 2011, to ensure the transaction is the best available for its shareholders.