According to a Bloomberg News report on Friday, Walgreens Boots Alliance has postponed plans for a potential initial public offering (IPO) of its UK-based Boots drugstore chain.
The decision comes as sale discussions continue, with informal talks with potential buyers, including private equity firms.
Current Status:
The pharmacy chain is exploring other options for Boots and has yet to decide on its future ownership.
The decision to shelve the IPO plans reflects Walgreens’ adaptability in seeking the most beneficial outcome for the Boots chain.
Previous Valuation and Sale Attempts:
Last month, Bloomberg News reported that any deal for Boots would value the chain at around £7 billion.
In 2022, Walgreens had scrapped preliminary plans to sell the unit but revived discussions about separating Boots, including the possibility of an IPO in London, late last year.
Potential Buyers and Market Interest:
Walgreens has continued informal discussions with potential buyers, including private equity firms.
The ongoing deliberations suggest that various market players are strongly interested in Boots, highlighting its significant market value and strategic importance.