Potential Merger CH2M with Aitkins

[tonybird1946]

I am told there is an article in today's times about the potential merger.

Sorry I can't manage to post it as my access is limited.

[Tim SMITH]

Here is an article on the subject in today's Daily Telegraph:

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2017/01/30/ws-atkins-ch2m-merger-talk-spurs-share-price-rise/

[John Ratsey]

Interesting. Perhaps Atkins could take over CH2M's UK business and put some much-needed cash into CH2M's cash box. I find it difficult to believe that Atkins would want to merge with CH2M - too much of a culture clash.

[Adam Schofield]

Speaking as someone who left CH2 & joined Atkins 5 yrs ago, I was somewhat amused by the article. Am I going to end up going full circle?!
While I don't have the ear of Atkins' Chief Exec, I would be surprised if this went any further though. It would dilute the margin of Atkins which is much more profitable as a % of revenue, and (as a plc) I think has a stronger cash position.
That's not to say that there could be continuing strategic collaboration though, such as the current Crossrail2.

[John Ratsey]

Something more from Atkins  Only a few days ago.

[John Ratsey]

The latest NCE includes a report about Atkins having received an attractive offer from SNC-Lavelin.

[Adam Schofield]

Atkins has indeed been 'bought' by SNC-Lavalin - subject to shareholders agreeing with the recommendation of Atkins Exec Board. Which they will

[John Ratsey]

I'm a little surprised that the Atkins board didn't repel the bid given SNC-Lavelin's residence on the World Bank blacklist http://www.worldbank.org/en/news/press-release/2013/04/17/world-bank-debars-snc-lavalin-inc-and-its-affiliates-for-ten-years.

[Dillerman]

Atkins has indeed been 'bought' by SNC-Lavalin - subject to https://www.mergere.com/d-bal-max-review-and-results to d bal max shareholders agreeing with the recommendation of Atkins Exec Board. Which they will

I think a merger would be good.