BUYOUTS DEALS OF THE YEAR –

Buyouts is now accepting nominations for its third annual Deals of the Year Awards, which honor LBO firms and other participants for achieving successful majority stake transactions. Once again, we will recognize winners in 12 categories (listed below), publishing the results in our Feb. 17 and March 17 issues. Awards will be handed out at the Buyouts Symposium on March 13 at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York.

What deals qualify?

There are two basic qualifications: 1) The deal must be a majority stake transaction that involves full or partial private equity sponsorship and results in the company going private. (Thus, transactions such as PIPEs and the merger of two public companies will not be considered.) 2) The deal must have been completed in 2002. A deal that is expected to close by the end of 2002 may also be considered, but if it fails to close by Dec. 31 it will not be eligible.

How do I submit?

Submissions for awards must include a cover sheet summarizing the nomination, as well as any relevant backup documentation, including press clippings, etc. Each deal will be evaluated on its merits as a groundbreaking transaction, including obstacles it overcame, and the innovation required on the part of the firm or professional to get it completed. Those up for nomination should be prepared to discuss details like purchase price, co-investors, etc. In short, the more forthcoming you are with your submission the more likely it will be considered. All submissions must be received by Friday, Dec. 6.

Submissions can be sent to the attention of Dan Doron, c/o Buyouts Newsletter – Awards, 195 Broadway, 10th Floor, New York, NY, 10007. They can also be emailed to