Hornbeck and Helix plan to merge

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Houston-headquartered Helix Energy Solutions Group Inc. (NYSE: HLX) and Covington, La.-headquartered Hornbeck Offshore Services Inc. (HOS) report that they have entered into a definitive agreement to combine in an all-stock transaction. On closing of the transaction, Hornbeck shareholders will own approximately 55% and Helix shareholders will own approximately 45% of the combined company on a fully diluted basis.

According to the companies “the strategic combination will create a recognized leader in offshore operations through a diversified and expanded high-specification fleet of specialty vessels, supported by subsea robotics, well intervention and technical service capabilities, including trenching subsea pipelines and cables. The combined company will provide innovative and integrated subsea and marine transportation solutions to customers across deepwater energy, defense and renewables. Combining Helix’s well intervention assets and robotics with Hornbeck’s specialty and ultra-high specification offshore support vessels will form a complementary, end-to-end service offering that materially expands the combined company’s ability to meet a broader share of customers’ deepwater needs. Together, Helix and Hornbeck will have a multi-faceted service portfolio that spans the entire life-cycle of deepwater fields, improves macro resilience and increases exposure to specialty non-oilfield markets.”

Post closing, the combined company will operate under the Hornbeck Offshore Services name and trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “HOS.” The combined company’s headquarters will be in Houston, Texas, and Covington, Louisiana.

Post closing, the combined company will operate under the Hornbeck Offshore Services name and trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “HOS.” The combined company’s headquarters will be in Houston, Texas, and Covington, Louisiana.

Todd M. Hornbeck will serve as president and chief executive officer of the combined company. The combined company’s board will have seven directors, three will be from Helix and four from Hornbeck, including Mr. Hornbeck. William L. Transier will serve as Chairman of the combined company’s Board.

“In merging two proven industry leaders with industry-leading teams, assets and offerings, this transaction creates a global deepwater vessel and services company with the scale and capabilities to deliver sustainable, long-term growth,” said Owen Kratz, president and chief executive officer of Helix. “This combination is a compelling opportunity to enhance value for Helix’s shareholders, building on our momentum as one of the world’s premier marine service contractors.”

“We are confident that by capitalizing on each company’s unique expertise, we will unlock meaningful strategic and operational benefits that enhance our ability to serve customers worldwide and drive significant shareholder value creation,” said Todd M. Hornbeck, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Hornbeck. “The combined company will be a growth‑oriented company driven by the desire to provide innovative, high-quality, value-added business solutions with an emphasis on safety and an entrepreneurial culture.”

More in the presentation released in conjunction with a conference call this morning: