Creston receives takeover approach from private equity firm

by Jacquie Bowser, Brand Republic 15-Sep-08, 14:00

LONDON - Creston, the UK-based marketing services group, has confirmed that it is in discussions with an unnamed private equity firm regarding a possible offer for the company.

Creston revealed in a stockmarket announcement that the private equity firm is in the final stages of its due diligence and the arranging of finance.

The private equity firm reportedly intends to offer senior management positions and equity participations to Don Elgie, Creston's chief executive, and Barrie Brien, Creston's chief financial officer, and to other senior members of the company's board.

Creston's board has therefore formed a committee of independent directors comprising non-executive chairman David Marshall, and non-executive directors Andrew Dougal and Malcolm Wall, and advised by Rothschild.

The independent directors stressed that there was no certainty that an offer will be made.

Creston owns 12 marketing companies, including market research firms CML Research and ICM Research, and direct agencies Tullo Marshall Warren and The Real Adventure Marketing Communications.

The group's share price is currently trading at 54p, down 3.57% after opening today at 62p.