UniFirst Corp (UNF) Receives $5.2B Acquisition Proposal from Cintas (CTAS) at 64% Premium
Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst
Updated: Dec 22 2025
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Source: Benzinga
- Acquisition Proposal: Cintas Corporation has proposed to acquire UniFirst for $275 per share in cash, valuing the company at approximately $5.2 billion, which represents a 64% premium over its 90-day average closing price, indicating strong confidence in UniFirst's future growth potential.
- Market Reaction: This news has driven UniFirst's stock price up by 18.6%, reflecting investor optimism regarding the acquisition deal, and it may also attract interest from other potential buyers, further intensifying market competition.
- Industry Impact: The acquisition proposal could reshape the uniform and workwear industry landscape, as Cintas aims to enhance its market share and service capabilities by integrating UniFirst's resources and customer base.
- Strategic Significance: Cintas's acquisition intent not only underscores its focus on industry consolidation but also has the potential to achieve long-term business growth and profitability enhancement through an expanded product line and service offerings.
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Analyst Views on CTAS
Wall Street analysts forecast CTAS stock price to rise over the next 12 months. According to Wall Street analysts, the average 1-year price target for CTAS is 213.90 USD with a low forecast of 181.00 USD and a high forecast of 245.00 USD. However, analyst price targets are subjective and often lag stock prices, so investors should focus on the objective reasons behind analyst rating changes, which better reflect the company's fundamentals.
14 Analyst Rating
5 Buy
8 Hold
1 Sell
Moderate Buy
Current: 189.160
Low
181.00
Averages
213.90
High
245.00
Current: 189.160
Low
181.00
Averages
213.90
High
245.00
About CTAS
Cintas Corporation develops uniform programs using fabric. The Company helps businesses of all types and sizes, primarily in the United States, as well as Canada and Latin America. The Company operates through two segments: Uniform Rental and Facility Services segment and the First Aid and Safety Services segment. The Uniform Rental and Facility Services segment consists of the rental and servicing of uniforms and other garments, including flame resistant clothing, mats, mops and shop towels and other ancillary items. This segment also includes restroom cleaning services and supplies and the sale of items from its catalogs to its customers. The First Aid and Safety Services segment consists of first aid and safety products and services. The remainder of its segments, which consists of the Fire Protection Services segment and the Uniform Direct Sale segment, is included in All Other. It provides its products and services to small service and manufacturing companies and to corporations.
About the author
Emily J. Thompson
Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.
Cintas (CTAS) Declares $0.45 Quarterly Dividend with 0.93% Yield
- Quarterly Dividend Declaration: Cintas has declared a quarterly dividend of $0.45 per share, consistent with previous distributions, indicating the company's stable cash flow and commitment to shareholder returns.
- Yield Analysis: The forward yield of 0.93% reflects the company's competitiveness in the current market environment, potentially attracting investors seeking stable income.
- Payment Schedule: The dividend is payable on March 13, with a record date of February 13 and an ex-dividend date also set for February 13, ensuring timely returns for shareholders.
- Acquisition Dynamics: Cintas continues to pursue its offer to acquire UniFirst for $275 per share in cash, despite analysts suggesting a low probability of acceptance, highlighting Cintas's ongoing efforts to expand its business.
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Cintas Corporation (CTAS) Declares $0.45 Quarterly Cash Dividend, Continuing 42-Year Dividend Growth
- Dividend Announcement: Cintas Corporation's Board of Directors has approved a quarterly cash dividend of $0.45 per share, payable on March 13, 2026, reflecting the company's strong commitment to returning capital to shareholders.
- Historical Performance: Since its IPO in 1983, Cintas has consistently raised its dividend each year, demonstrating stable profitability and solid financial health, which enhances investor confidence.
- Shareholder Protection: Future dividend declarations will be at the discretion of the Board based on the company's operating results, financial condition, and other relevant factors, ensuring flexibility and sustainability in its dividend policy.
- Market Position: Cintas serves over one million businesses with products and services that ensure cleanliness, safety, and aesthetics, solidifying its position in the Fortune 500 and as a component of both the S&P 500 and Nasdaq-100 indices.
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