Vincent Bollore, chairman of French advertising giant Havas, has said that he expects the firm to return to profit growth in the second half of 2006, and that the company would be open to acquisition opportunities in the near future.
Bollore, who has recently built up his stake in rival media firm Aegis, repeatedly outlined the benefits of a tie-up between the two firms at a press conference today, explaining that there was a certain “logic” to purchasing co-operation between Havas and Aegis. Bollore is currently the largest shareholder in both companies, having recently secured a 25% share in Aegis.
The media mogul explained that, since becoming chairman at Havas, several approaches had been made by Aegis with regard to creating an alliance, although he stressed that no specific talks were underway, and that any deal would only involve media purchasing.
While refusing to reveal specific plans for Aegis Group, Bollore said: “There is no plan to go above 30% for now. The game is open, and we are ready to reconsider our position.”
The media boss reiterated his claim that his holdings in Aegis amount to nothing more than a financial investment, rather than a strategic holding (see Bollore Surpasses 20% Share In Aegis).
Outlining his current plans for Havas, Bollore said that the company would look to expanding markets such as China and elsewhere in Asia, as well as beginning a “media inside” restructuring to unite executives from both media purchasing and creation.
According to the chairman, Havas’ full year operating margin will fall to around 10% from the 11.5% last year. However, Bollore explained this, stating that last year’s sales had been artificially boosted by advanced billings of around €20 million.
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