Huntsworth confirms talks with Media Square over selling some assets

by Staff, Brand Republic 05-Jul-05, 12:00

LONDON - Huntsworth, the public relations holding company run by Shandwick founder Lord Chadlington, has confirmed it is in early talks about selling some of its marketing services agencies to Media Square, including its promotional and sports operations.

The sale of some of Huntsworth's assets to Media Square, which is listed on the AIM, could prompt Incepta's chief executive Richard Nichols to jump ship. He is presently slated to become chief executive of the company formed when Huntsworth and Incepta merge.

The assets up for sale are likely to include Dynamo, the promotional marketing agency, and Karen Earl Sponsorship, which specialises in sports sponsorship.

The company said the results of the strategic review were expected to be announced in the autumn. At the same time, Huntsworth will reveal changes to its senior management and board.

Huntsworth is close to completing its £195m takeover of rival public relations and marketing services firm Incepta, with its offer set to close on July 13.

Media Square owns agencies including Clark McKay Walpole, business-to-business ad agency IAS, interactive shop Arnold Interactive and retail marketing services agency Fourninety.

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