Maclean Hunter Assets Attract Suitors Amidst Rogers' Takeover Bid

Strategic Insights -

The proposed $3-billion takeover bid by Rogers Communications Inc. of Maclean Hunter Ltd., a Toronto institution dating back to 1887, has set off a scramble among potential buyers for various assets. Companies eyeing Maclean Hunter's diverse business portfolio include Southam Inc., Moore Corp. Ltd., and MDC Corp. The future of Maclean Hunter's business forms and commercial printing division, a segment accounting for the company's second-largest revenue source after cable TV, remains uncertain.

Key Takeaways:

  • Rogers Communications Inc. has proposed a $3-billion takeover bid for Maclean Hunter Ltd.
  • Maclean Hunter's business forms and commercial printing division, its second-largest revenue source, may be up for grabs.
  • Companies like Southam Inc., Moore Corp. Ltd., and MDC Corp. are interested in acquiring various Maclean Hunter assets, including its business forms operation and trade show services.
  • Hollinger Inc. is not keen on acquiring Maclean Hunter's tabloid interests, but is open to purchasing daily paid newspapers at the right price.
  • Maclean Hunter's diverse business portfolio includes its 62% stake in Toronto Sun Publishing Corp., a majority stake in the Financial Post, and interests in cable TV systems.

Statistics:

  • $3 billion: The proposed takeover bid by Rogers Communications Inc. for Maclean Hunter Ltd.
  • 62%: Maclean Hunter's stake in Toronto Sun Publishing Corp.
  • 1989: The year the Ottawa Sun went daily.
  • 1887: The year Maclean Hunter Ltd. was founded.

Sources:

  • The Globe and Mail, John Saunders, "Maclean Hunter Falls Prey to Biggest Canadian Media Takeover Bid Yet"
  • Maclean's magazine and Chatelaine (Maclean Hunter publications)