Mergers & Acquisitions

Research shows that better sales and operations planning can improve corporate performance

Acxiom Corporation enters into a definitive agreement to be acquired by Silver Lake, an investment firm focused on large-scale investments in technology-driven growth industries, and ValueAct Capital, one of the largest investment firms that makes strategic block and control investments in public and private companies.

Russ Berrie and Company Inc. announces that its board of directors has appointed Michael Zimmerman as chairman and Raphael Benaroya as vice chairman.

Chattem Inc. announces the closing of its previously announced agreement to acquire the rights to ACT, a branded over-the-counter (OTC) anti-cavity mouthwash/mouth rinse, in Western Europe with worldwide trademark rights from Johnson & Johnson for $4.1 million in cash plus certain assumed liabilities.

The Hain Celestial Group Inc., a natural and organic food and personal care products company, plans to acquire the tofu and meat-alternative business of WhiteWave Foods Company, a subsidiary of Dean Foods Company.

Denise L. Ramos resigns from her post as senior vice president and chief financial officer of Furniture Brands International Inc. to accept the position of Chief Financial Officer at ITT Corporation.

JDA Software Group Inc.'s FOCUS 2007 User Group Conference brought together the largest and most diverse contingency of customers in the event's 17-year history.

Nike Inc. and Foot Locker Inc. expect to open up to 50 "House of Hoops by Foot Locker" retail stores in the United States over the next three years, creating a new brand and community-oriented retail experience that celebrates the culture of the game for basketball consumers.