Jo-Ann Stores to move forward with sale to Leonard Green

New York City -- Jo-Ann Stores announced Tuesday that it has received no other takeover bids after a nearly two-month "go-shop" period. The fabric and crafts chain said it will therefore ask shareholders to vote on the company's proposed $1.6 billion sale to Leonard Green & Partners LP.



The meeting is scheduled for March 18.



Jo-Ann Stores, which operates 751 stores in 48 states, announced the proposed sale in December. The company had until Feb. 14 to seek a better offer.



The acquisition is expected to close by the end of March if the majority of shareholders approve the deal.