SunOpta Announces Proxy Advisory Firms ISS and Glass Lewis Recommend Shareholders Vote "FOR" Proposed Acquisition by Refresco

Executive Summary

• Independent proxy advisors ISS and Glass Lewis have recommended SunOpta shareholders vote “FOR” the proposed acquisition by Refresco Holding B.V. at the special shareholder meeting on April 16, 2026.
• The Board of Directors unanimously supports the Arrangement, deeming it fair and in the best interests of shareholders.
• The transaction values SunOpta at US$6.50 per share in cash, subject to shareholder approval, court sanction and customary closing conditions.

Key Details

• Proxy Recommendations: ISS and Glass Lewis both advise a “FOR” vote on the Refresco acquisition.
• Acquisition Terms: Refresco will acquire SunOpta for US$6.50 per share in cash.
• Shareholder Meeting: Scheduled for April 16, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. ET, to be held via live audio webcast (www.virtualshareholdermeeting.com/STKL2026SM).
• Board Position: SunOpta’s Board unanimously determined the Arrangement is fair and in shareholders’ best interests and also recommends a “FOR” vote.
• Closing Conditions: Subject to shareholder approval, Ontario Superior Court of Justice order, antitrust clearances, financing availability, and other customary conditions.
• Proxy Cut‑off: Proxies must be received by April 14, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. ET.
• Shareholder Assistance Contacts:
• Sodali & Co – proxy assistance (1‑833‑830‑8285 / 1‑289‑695‑3075; [email protected])
• TSX Trust Company – depositary inquiries (1‑866‑600‑5859 / 1‑416‑342‑1091; [email protected])
• Regulatory Filings: Notice of the Shareholder Meeting and the Management Information Circular & Proxy Statement filed on March 18, 2026 with the SEC (EDGAR) and Canadian regulators (SEDAR+).

Notable Quotes

(No direct quotes were included in the release.)