Friday, August 24, 2007


BORDERS LOOKS FOR EARLY SALE

From The Bookseller 23 August:

Borders is believed to be keen to clarify the future of its UK and Ireland business before the main autumn selling season begins. The summer lull has seen suitors scrutinise the finances of the company, with W H Smith gaining increasing currency as a potential buyer if the price drops below £25m.
"I can't see it operating as a standalone business," said influential City analyst Richard Ratner from Seymour Pierce. "W H Smith will only take them over for a decent price—and they will strip out the underperforming stores to cut costs."
But there is still confidence within Borders about the likelihood of a private equity funded management buyout led by Borders UK c.e.o. David Roche. Despite the speculation surrounding its future, the retailer has held on to its senior staff.

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