B&M Retail ‘eyes main market IPO’

LIVERPOOL-based discount retailer B&M Retail could float on the London Stock Market in 2014.

Clayton Dubilier & Rice, the investment firm that took a 60% stake in the business in December 2012, valuing the chain at more than £900m, is said to be considering the main market listing.

Investment managers could be appointed to manage the process before the year is out as CD&R looks to quickly benefit from the firm’s rapid growth and huge success – B&M’s profits rose 71% to £88.3m in 2012.

The company – owned by brothers Bobby, Robin and Simon – has grown to a chain of more than 350 shops, employing around 15,000 staff.

B&M’s chairman Sir Terry, stepped down as chief executive of Tesco more than two years ago.