National World "minded to recommend" sweetened Media Concierge offer

(Alliance News) - National World PLC on Friday said it was minded to accept an improved proposed ...

Alliance News 6 December, 2024 | 9:44AM
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(Alliance News) - National World PLC on Friday said it was minded to accept an improved proposed offer from Media Concierge (Holdings) Ltd.

The Leeds-based owner of the Yorkshire Post and the Scotsman said Media Concierge had, on Tuesday, submitted a new 23 pence per share cash proposal. A bid at this level would value National World at around GBP61 million.

In a statement, National World said that it would be "minded to recommend" the improved proposal if a firm offer was made to shareholders on these terms.

In November, Media Concierge had offered 21p per National World share, valuing the firm at GBP56.2 million.

On Friday morning, shares in National World were 3.8% higher at 19.72p each in London.

Media Concierge, a UK-based media representation and advertising services provider, is the largest shareholder in National World, with an around 28% stake.

National World said Media Concierge has provided written reassurances regarding its intentions and confirmed that it has satisfied in all material respects its confirmatory due diligence requirements.

National World had previously outlined significant concerns relating to the offer.

National World revealed that on October 1, prior to the initial approach, it was made aware of "a potentially systemic pattern of historical invoicing irregularities" tied to the activities of Media Concierge's affiliated entities.

The firm said it commenced an investigation the following day, adding that entities affiliated to Media Concierge are inappropriately withholding GBP4.4 million in revenue from the firm.

On Friday, National World said it has agreed to a temporary halt in legal proceedings relating to the investigation whilst discussions are ongoing regarding the improved proposal.

Media Concierge has until December 20 to make a firm bid to buy National World.

By Jeremy Cutler, Alliance News reporter

Comments and questions to newsroom@alliancenews.com

Copyright 2024 Alliance News Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

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Securities Mentioned in Article

Security Name Price Change (%) Morningstar
Rating
National World PLC Ordinary Shares 22.08 GBX -0.98 -

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