8-KAcquisitions & DispositionsMaterial AgreementsSecurities & Listing+1

MPLX LP 8-K Report, Material Agreement (Apr 6, 2016)

Filed April 6, 2016For Securities:MPLXMPLXP

Summary

This 8-K filing by MPLX LP (MPLX) on April 5, 2016, announces the completion of a significant transaction: the acquisition of Hardin Street Marine LLC ("HSM"), which operates MPLX's inland marine business, from MPC Investment LLC for approximately $600 million in equity consideration. The acquired business, comprising 18 tow boats and 205 barges, is a substantial part of Marathon Petroleum Corporation's ("MPC") inland marine transportation operations, handling nearly 60% of MPC's total inland marine volumes. This acquisition is expected to expand MPLX's logistics and transportation network. In conjunction with the acquisition, MPLX has entered into or assumed several material definitive agreements, primarily with Marathon Petroleum Company LP and its affiliates. These include transportation and management services agreements for HSM's operations, an employee services agreement, and a guaranteed supply agreement for fuel. These agreements are long-term in nature, with initial terms of six years and automatic renewals, ensuring operational continuity and integration of the acquired assets. This strategic move signifies MPLX's continued growth and integration with its parent company's assets, enhancing its midstream capabilities.

Key Highlights

  • 1MPLX LP completed the acquisition of Hardin Street Marine LLC ("HSM") for approximately $600 million in equity consideration, effective March 31, 2016.
  • 2HSM operates MPLX's inland marine business, contributing significantly to Marathon Petroleum Corporation's (MPC) overall inland marine transportation volumes.
  • 3The acquired business includes 18 tow boats and 205 barges, transporting a variety of products across key regions.
  • 4MPLX assumed several material agreements related to HSM's operations, including transportation, management, and employee services, primarily with Marathon Petroleum Company LP and its affiliates.
  • 5These assumed agreements are generally long-term, with initial terms of six years and provisions for automatic renewals, providing operational stability.
  • 6The transaction was settled through the issuance of MPLX Common Units and general partner units, with certain distribution waivers for the first quarter of 2016.
  • 7The acquisition is strategically aligned with MPLX's objective to expand its logistics and midstream infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions

The main event reported is the completion of MPLX LP's acquisition of Hardin Street Marine LLC ("HSM") for approximately $600 million in equity. HSM operates MPLX's inland marine business.

HSM operates an inland marine business consisting of 18 tow boats and 205 barges. These assets are used to transport light products, heavy oils, crude oil, renewable fuels, chemicals, and feedstocks.

The key counterparties are Marathon Petroleum Company LP ("MPC LP") and Marathon Petroleum Logistics Services LLC ("MPLS"), both of which are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Marathon Petroleum Corporation ("MPC").

The acquisition was financed through equity consideration, with MPLX LP issuing approximately $600 million worth of MPLX Common Units to MPLX Logistics and general partner units to the General Partner.