Ipsos Confirms Kantar Media Discussions

Updating Friday's top story just a little, Ipsos has issued a statement confirming that 'discussions are currently underway regarding a potential acquisition of Kantar Media'.

DRNO reported on speculation in the financial press on Friday, and today the France-based global group says the move is 'in line with [its] strategy to regularly evaluate investment opportunities that may strengthen its market position'. In the statement, Ipsos makes the usual assertion that nothing may come of the talks, and underlines that while they are ongoing it will make no further comment.

Equity firms Cinven and Triton are also said to be interested in buying the division, for which reports suggests the price tag may be about £1 billion. Kantar Media has around 4,000 staff while Ipsos' global total is just under 20,000.

Web sites: www.kantarmedia.com and www.ipsos.com .