Osmond considering Six Continents bid

UK pubs entrepreneur Hugh Osmond is planning a takeover bid for hotels and pubs chain Six Continents, it was confirmed today.

The tycoon, who built a fortune from his involvement in firms such as PizzaExpress and Punch Taverns, is heading up an investment firm, Capital Management and Investment which is “considering” a bid.

The confirmation follows widespread reports that Mr Osmond was plotting a bid, with speculation an offer could value Six Continents at up to £7bn (€10.39bn).

Six Continents operates over 3,200 hotels across nearly 100 countries under brands such as Holiday Inn and Inter-Continental.

It also has 2,000 pubs and restaurants under brands including All Bar One, O’Neills, Harvester and Ember Inns.