Boots dismisses bid speculations

Boots PLC, the health and beauty group, described as speculation a newspaper report claiming it is considering a bid for SSL International PLC, the maker of Durex condoms and Scholl foot care products.

SSL confirmed last Monday that it is in offer talks with an unnamed party.

Anglo-Dutch consumer products group Reckitt Benckiser PLC and its US rival Kimberley-Clarke, was among the suspected bidders.

The Guardian newspaper reported, without naming sources that Boots is also interested in the company, and is looking at tabling its own offer.

If successful, Boots would slot the SSL consumer business into its Boots Healthcare International unit, which makes over the counter drugs such as Nurofen and Strepsils, and a range of skincare products including E45, Sol-Tan sun creams and Clearasil, the article said.