WH Smith PLC ("WH Smith" or the "Company") today announces that it has received a preliminary approach from Permira regarding a possible offer for all of the issued and to be issued ordinary share capital of WH Smith at 375p in cash with a partial equity alternative in the bidding entity. The Company has had a preliminary discussion with Permira seeking clarification of its proposal.
Shareholders should note that, as the approach is preliminary and there are a number of pre-conditions to the making of any offer, there can be no certainty that an offer for the Company will be made.
Following her appointment as Group CEO, Kate Swann has been working on an operational and financial review of the Company which is well in train. She will be providing an update to shareholders on progress at the Company's Interim Results announcement on Thursday 22nd April.
A further announcement will be made in due course.