While City analists suggest that an independent Ladbrokes might become a target for venture capitalists, the betting company is believed to be preparing an offer for Rank Group, the owner of Blue Square, Mecca Bingo and Grosvenor Casinos.
The demerger of Ladbrokes from Hilton Group would realize the long-held ambition of Chris Bell, Ladbrokes’s Chief Executive, to play an active role in the betting industry consolidation.
Analysts believe that the Ladbrokes betting business could be worth as much as £4 billion including debt.
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