Bollore Raises Stakes As WPP Shows Interest In Aegis

WPP has joined the growing list of businesses interested in acquiring media buying group Aegis, with the company reportedly considering a bid for the British firm’s research arm.

Meanwhile, French entrepreneur Vincent Bollore has further increased his stake in the company, fanning the flames of speculation surrounding his intentions, and securing 12.63% of the firm.

WPP’s interest, according to a source close to the company, is primarily in Aegis’ Synovate business and forms part of a larger bid by American investment firm, Hellman & Friedman.

The speculation surrounding WPP adds to the flurry of excitement created at first by Publicis’ approach last month (see Publicis Confirms Aegis Bid Rumours), and then by reports claiming offers from Taylor Nelson Sofres, Omnicom and Ipsos were all being prepared (see Rivals Mull Battle With Publicis Over Aegis).

Bollore’s rapidly increasing share in the company is also turning heads in the City, with the French businessman increasing his holdings from 6% to almost 13% in just seven days. The entrepreneur’s move yesterday to secure an 11.4% share took him above the 10% mark at which he is able to refuse sale of his shares in the event of a takeover offer, thus forcing a higher bid to be made (see Bollore Increases Aegis Stake To 11.4%).

A fierce bidding war for control of Aegis now looks inevitable, with the company confirming this morning that is has held talks with “more than one” potential bidder, casting further doubt on Publicis’ chance of success in securing a swift purchase of the firm (see Aegis Confirms Rival Bids For Takeover).

Aegis Group: 020 7070 7700 www.aegisplc.com