Anaplan Acquisition: Key Details, Impact, and What Comes Next

Thoma Bravo's acquisition of Anaplan, valued at approximately $10.4 billion, marks a significant development in the software and technology sectors. This all-cash transaction underscores the strategic importance of Anaplan's cloud-native platform for business performance orchestration. The acquisition is expected to enhance Anaplan's market position and drive future growth, benefiting stakeholders across the board.

What Is Anaplan?

Anaplan, founded in 2006, specializes in AI-infused scenario planning, analysis, and reporting. Its core products include financial planning, sales and marketing solutions, supply chain management, and HR and workforce planning. Anaplan's unique selling points are its AI-infused platform designed to optimize decision-making, its connected planning approach that eliminates silos, and its industry-specific solutions. The platform also boasts comprehensive capabilities such as predictive insights, data management, and robust security features.

Who Acquired Anaplan?

Thoma Bravo is a leading private equity firm specializing in investments in software and technology companies. With over 40 years of history, the firm provides capital and strategic support to experienced management teams and growing companies. Thoma Bravo manages over $166 billion in assets and has completed more than 500 transactions. The firm is highly influential in the private equity sector, recognized for its significant market impact and numerous industry awards.

When Was Anaplan Acquired?

Thoma Bravo completed its acquisition of Anaplan on June 22, 2022. This acquisition came at a time when the demand for cloud-native platforms and digital transformation solutions was surging. The deal, initially announced on March 20, 2022, and approved by Anaplan stockholders on June 21, 2022, reflects the growing trend of private equity firms investing heavily in innovative software companies to capitalize on the increasing need for advanced business performance orchestration tools.

Why Was Anaplan Acquired?

• Market Expansion: The acquisition of Anaplan by Thoma Bravo is a strategic move to capitalize on the massive opportunity and incredible demand Anaplan is experiencing. Thoma Bravo's resources and insights are expected to help Anaplan accelerate and scale its growth strategy, solidifying its leadership position in the market for Connected Planning.
• Technology Integration: Anaplan's platform, which uses proprietary Hyperblock™ technology, enables real-time performance contextualization and future outcome forecasting. This technology integration is crucial for providing connected strategy and planning across enterprises, which will be further supported by Thoma Bravo's operational and investment expertise in enterprise software.
• Competitive Advantage: Anaplan is described as having the best product in a large, important, high-growth market. The combination of Anaplan’s modern platform and robust innovation engine, along with Thoma Bravo’s strategic and operational capabilities, positions Anaplan for continued growth and innovation, providing a significant competitive edge in the enterprise planning space.

Acquisition Terms

• Acquisition Price: The acquisition price is approximately $10.4 billion.
• Payment Method: The transaction was an all-cash deal.
• Key Conditions or Agreements:
  • Anaplan stockholders will receive $63.75 per share in cash.
  • The acquisition was approved by Anaplan stockholders at a Special Meeting of Stockholders held on June 21, 2022.
  • Anaplan’s common stock will cease trading and will no longer be listed on the New York Stock Exchange.
  • The amendment resolved a disagreement regarding compliance with certain terms of the original merger agreement.
  • Frank Calderoni stepped down as Chairman and CEO, with Charles Goodman appointed as interim CEO and Chairman.

Impact on Anaplan

The acquisition of Anaplan by Thoma Bravo has led to significant changes in the company's operations and management. Frank Calderoni stepped down as Chairman and CEO, with Charles Goodman taking over as interim CEO and Chairman. This leadership change aims to leverage Thoma Bravo's expertise to drive Anaplan's growth strategy. Additionally, Anaplan has transitioned to a privately held company, delisting from the New York Stock Exchange. These operational shifts are designed to streamline decision-making processes and enhance the company's agility in a competitive market.

While there have been no immediate changes to Anaplan's product offerings, the partnership with Thoma Bravo is expected to bolster the company's ability to deliver innovative solutions. Employee reactions have not been explicitly detailed, but the leadership's positive outlook suggests a supportive internal environment. Customer reactions also remain largely undocumented, though the emphasis on leveraging Thoma Bravo's resources indicates a commitment to maintaining high service standards. For founders considering business transitions, tools like Sunset can assist in managing these processes compliantly, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition.