Music and books retailer HMV said it had received a takeover
approach, sending its shares soaring by as much as 25 per cent.
The group, which issued a profit warning earlier this month, declined to identify its suitor.
Its confirmation comes after the Sunday Times reported that Permira is plotting an £800 million takeover bid for HMV.
The private-equity firm has appointed the investment bank Merrill Lynch to advise on a bid for HMV, which also owns the Waterstone’s book chain, the paper said.
Advertisement
Permira and Merrill Lynch declined to comment today.
Shares in HMV jumped as much as 40.75p to 205p on the London Stock Exchange, adding more than £100 million to the company’s market value. An £800m offer would put a value of about 200p a share on the business.
HMV stock had fallen sharply in recent months, ending last week close to a two-year low.
Investor confidence in HMV has been hit by a downturn in high-street spending and the referral of the group’s intended acquisition of rival Ottakar’s to the Competition Commission. HMV is also facing increasing competition from online music and book retailers such as Napster and Amazon.
Two weeks ago Alan Giles, HMV’s chief executive, announced that he planned to stand down at the end of the year. Giles is well regarded in the industry and his departure was a further blow to shareholders. The hunt for a successor is under way.
Advertisement
In recent months a number of American investors have built stakes in HMV, including Brandes, the value fund, which owns 7.3 per cent, and State Street, which owns 5.15 per cent.
It is not clear whether Permira would proceed with HMV’s planned acquisition of Ottakar’s, the Sunday Times reported.
Permira is already an investor in the high street, with a large stake in New Look, the fashion retailer. The private-equity firm has also made unsuccessful bids for Debenhams and WH Smith in recent years. A bid would be led by managing partner Damon Buffini and partner Martin Clarke.
HMV listed in London in 2002, but the brand dates back to 1921 when the first store was opened at 363 Oxford Street.