United Rentals Completes $2.1 Billion Refinancing

Feb. 23, 2004
Greenwich, Conn.-based United Rentals last week completed its previously announced offerings of $1 billion of 6 ½ percent senior notes due 2012 and $375

Greenwich, Conn.-based United Rentals last week completed its previously announced offerings of $1 billion of 6 ½ percent senior notes due 2012 and $375 million of 7 percent senior subordinated notes due 2014.

The company also announced that it obtained a new senior secured credit facility. It is using the proceeds from the note offerings, together with borrowings available under the new credit facility, to complete the refinancing of $2.1 billion of its debt in accordance with its previously announced plan. The refinancing will reduce the company’s interest expense and extend the maturities of a substantial portion of the company’s debt.

As part of the refinancing, the company repaid $639 million of term loans and $52 million of borrowings that were outstanding under its old credit facility; repurchased $845 million principal amount of its 10 ¾ senior notes due 2008 pursuant to its previously announced tender offer; called for redemption $300 million principal amount of its outstanding 9 ¼ senior subordinated notes due 2009 and will call for redemption $250 million principal amount of its outstanding 9 percent expected to be completed on February 27, 2004; and the redemption of the 9 percent senior subordinated notes is expected to be completed on April 1, 2004.

United Rentals also recently announced the appointment of Charles Wessendorf as vice president, investor relations and corporate communications. His responsibilities include investor relations, media relations and employee communications.

United Rentals is No. 1 on the RER 100.