Mergers and acquisitions

The National World takeover saga rumbles on, with the emergence of a second possible bidder confirmed by the PLC.

Sales and profits are up at National World, despite headwinds including “non-trading distractions” including the group’s impending change of ownership.

Software Circle has acquired another niche tech firm in a deal worth up to £7.5m.

TJ Books ran out of cash following its disastrous pre-pack acquisition of the H Charlesworth & Co business, leaving an estimated shortfall of more than £5m before being rescued by Clays.

Data-driven marketing firm, Pro-Active Business Information, has been acquired by Orbital10, an IT support, managed services and cybersecurity group.

Paragon is back on the M&A trail and has expanded its presence on the continent with a deal to acquire a business that produces 40 million physical mail packs a year.

Former Clondalkin CEO John FitzGerald has teamed up with Cordovan Capital to acquire Mayr Melnhof’s paper sack business in Bangor.

The proposed £3.6bn takeover of Royal Mail’s parent company has been delayed because of political unrest in Romania.

Business is booming at De La Rue’s Currency business, with growth at the unit now expected to be “significantly higher” than previous guidance, amid the PLC’s ongoing sale process.

Hampshire marketing and print business Footprint has completed its third acquisition in 12 months, bringing onboard the seven-person marketing firm Freedom-CS to launch a dedicated marketing business...