FTSE 100 slips on China and US worries, BP faces AGM battle, higher bids for Assura and Alliance Pharma, WH Smith high street sale update and Nick Train hit by Clarkson warning

Last Two Bidders Compete for WHSmith’s High Street Business

Only two contenders remain in the race to acquire WHSmith’s high street business as the retailer considers withdrawing from town and city centres across the UK.Alteri, the owner of Bensons for Beds, and Modella Capital, which owns Hobbycraft, are now the final bidders in discussions with WHSmith and its advisers regarding a potential deal.Doug Putman, the owner of HMV, is no longer involved in negotiations, although the Canadian businessman coul…

FTSE 100 slips on China and US worries, BP faces AGM battle, higher bids for Assura and Alliance Pharma, WH Smith high street sale update and Nick Train hit by Clarkson warning

Sale of WHSmith down to two bidders

The sale of WHSmith is reported to be a step nearer to completion, with a deal expected to be announced as early as April. WHSmith is reported to be makng progress on the sale of its high street business. According to Sky News, just two bidders remain in contention to acquire the retailer’s store portfolio. The retailer put the division up for sale last month in order to focus more on its more lucrative travel arm, which it says now represents 8…