The board said the unsolicited offer was not actionable after reviewing the Brown family group’s view, which said Brown-Forman is well-positioned for long-term value.
On Sunday, July 26, Brown-Forman Corporation's Board of Directors rejected an unsolicited acquisition proposal from Sazerac, concluding the offer was "not actionable."
Sazerac had previously approached the spirits giant in May with a $15 billion bid, which Brown-Forman also rejected, according to company reports.
Wolf Pen Branch, LP, representing the majority of Brown-Forman's Class A shares, stated the proposal does not align with their "vision for Brown-Forman's future."
Sazerac Executive Chairman Mark Brown and CEO Jake Wenz wrote in Friday's letter they stand "ready to improve the terms" should the board engage.
Chairman Marshall B. Farrer said Brown-Forman remains "focused" on executing its strategic plan to expand geographic footprint and deliver long-term shareholder value.