Davis Polk is advising the Merchant Banking Division of Goldman Sachs in connection with the preferred equity financing for the approximately $5.5 billion acquisition of Cabela’s Incorporated by Bass Pro Shops. Goldman Sachs and Pamplona Capital have committed approximately $2.4 billion to help Bass Pro finance the transaction. The acquisition, which is expected to close in the first half of 2017, will be completed through a cash merger and is subject to approval by Cabela’s shareholders, as well as regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.

The Merchant Banking Division of Goldman Sachs is one of the leading private equity investors in the world, focusing on assisting large, high-quality companies with best-in-class management teams to achieve their growth objectives. Bass Pro Shops, founded in 1972, is a leading national retailer of outdoor gear and apparel. Cabela’s is a highly respected marketer of hunting, fishing, camping, shooting sports and related outdoor merchandise.

The Davis Polk corporate team includes partners John D. Amorosi and Harold Birnbaum and associates Evan Rosen and Taylor Thompson. Partner Kathleen L. Ferrell and associate Ethan R. Goldman are providing tax advice. Partner Jeffrey P. Crandall and associate Florentino Salazar are providing executive compensation advice. Partner Pritesh P. Shah and associate Samantha Lefland are providing intellectual property and technology advice. All members of the Davis Polk team are based in the New York office.