Shares in Next 15 Group PLC (AIM:NFG) rose by 8% on Friday amid reports that the troubled marketing group has been approached about a possible £200mln divestment of its traditional advertising and public relations operations.
According to Sky News, London-group firm is in discussions regarding the sale of its so-called “legacy” assets, including the financial PR agency MHP, according to Sky News.
The potential acquirer is understood to be a private equity firm, although no names have been disclosed.
A deal would mark a significant restructuring of Next 15’s portfolio, narrowing its focus to technology and data-driven marketing services.
The development follows a turbulent week for the company, which issued a profit warning and dismissed three senior executives at Mach49, its Silicon Valley-based innovation consultancy, over what it described as “potential serious misconduct”.
In a statement to the London Stock Exchange, Next 15 confirmed the departures of Linda Yates, Russ Lampert and Paul Holland from Mach49.
David Charpie, previously co-chief executive, has taken over as sole chief executive.
The shares rose 9% to 226.5p.