Contrary to widespread belief, Merger and Acquisition activity in the UK is showing signs of life. Ben Harrington, Business Journalist and Betaville Blogger joined us on today’s London open show to talk about latest developments in the M&A arena. The message that comes out from this segment is that weak sterling is boosting the M&A activity irrespective of the political melee.
Key points discussed
Poundland (LON:PLND) bought by South African group Steinhoff (DE:SNHG) for £597m
Deal partly driven by GBP weakness, however, Steinhoff has been sniffing around UK firms for a couple of years
Another deal significantly driven by GBP fall - AMC Entertainment (NYSE:AMC) to buy London-based Odeon (F:ODEG) and UCI Cinemas Group
Nortek to be acquired by UK turnaround specialists Melrose (LON:MRON)
Shanks merger with Netherlands-based waste collection and recycling company Van Gansewinkel