Giant Deal to Sell easyJet for $7.5 Billion Goes Up a Notch. What Will Happen to the Brand?

The move to acquire easyJet entered another phase today (Thursday, October 15, 26), with the publication of the official transaction document, detailing the terms of the purchase and the steps required of shareholders. The buyer, Eagle Bidco, a company backed by Apollo funds, is paying a total of £5.7 billion ($7.5 billion).

According to the company's announcement, the agreement to acquire easyJet's entire share capital was reached in August 2026.

The cash offer is £7.15 per share, and the board of directors has unanimously recommended that shareholders support it. The transaction will be carried out through a settlement approved under British law and remains subject to the completion of the relevant conditions and approvals.

Shareholders Will Have Their Say in November

The next stage in the transaction will be two shareholder meetings, scheduled for November 11, 2026.

Approval of the move requires the support of the majority specified in the terms of the arrangement, including support of at least 75% of the value of the shares voted at the legal meeting and 75% of the votes at the general meeting. Regulatory approvals and court approval will also be required after that.

Alongside the cash consideration, Apollo is offering eligible shareholders an alternative option to receive non-tradable shares in Apollo investment vehicles, in lieu of cash payment. The option includes a three-year lock-up period, and the easyJet board does not recommend that shareholders elect or reject it, given the potential differences in their circumstances.

As for the future of the company, Apollo said it intends to retain the easyJet brand, its UK headquarters, and its operating licenses in the UK, Austria, and Switzerland. The plan it presented includes continuing to modernize the fleet, expanding loyalty services and related revenues, and strengthening its easyJet Holidays package business.

The deal, if completed, would end easyJet's status as a public company listed on the London Stock Exchange after around 25 years of trading. However, the deal is still pending, and its completion depends on shareholder votes and other required approvals.