WHSmiths Publishing Interests
14 March 2003 - 4:05AM
UK Regulatory
RNS Number:7216I
Smith WH PLC
13 March 2003
13 March 2003
WH Smith PLC ("WHSmith")
WHSmith's Publishing Interests
Following recent speculation, WHSmith and Cinven Ltd. ("Cinven") confirm that
they have expressed an interest in acquiring AOL Time Warner Book Group Inc.
(which incorporates Little, Brown and Warner Books), with a view to combining
WHSmith's publishing business, Hodder Headline, with AOL Time Warner Book Group
Inc. This would enable Hodder Headline to create one of the leading
transatlantic publishers.
Cinven would be the sole provider of equity capital to fund the merger of the
two businesses.
Discussions are at a preliminary stage. A further announcement will be made in
due course, if appropriate.
- ENDS -
Enquiries
WH Smith PLC
Mark Boyle Investor Relations +44 20 7514 9630
Louise Evans Media Relations +44 20 7514 9624
Greenhill
James Lupton Managing Director +44 20 7440 0400
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