Could 6C demerger lead to another Safeway-style battle

The Financial Times predicts the makings of a Safeway-style bid battle for the soon-to-be demerged Six Continents. The company will unveil listing particulars for the demerger of the groups pubs from the hotels next week. It is thought to have received multiple expressions of interest from a range of trade and financial buyers. Marriott, Hilton, Starwood, Accor and Kohlberg Kravis Roberts could be interested in the hotels. A carve-up of the hotels among multiple buyers is possible. Hugh Osmond has already indicated he might bid for some or all of the pubs. Pubmaster and Enterprise Inns could be interested in breaking up the estate. The Times says interest in the company could derail the demerger plans. References: Financial Times 13/02/03 page 21, page 42 (Stock Markets – London), The Times 13/02/03 page 28 (Need to know), page 32