The American owners of Boots Pharmacy has shelved plans for a London float of the high street retailer.
Walgreens Boots Alliance is instead in talks over a sale, with potential buyers including private equity firms, Bloomberg has reported.
The New York-listed firm is going through a turbulent period after reporting operating losses of $13.2bn (£10.35bn) in the first six months of its financial year.
A spokesperson for Walgreens said: “We do not comment on rumours or speculation.
“Walgreens Boots Alliance is conducting a strategic review of our assets to drive sustainable long-term shareholder value. All options are on the table.”
However, Boots, Britain's biggest high street chemist, reported a 42.3% increase in pre-tax profits to £237.6m to the year end August 2023.
Sales have been boosted via brands such as Fenty Beauty by Rihanna. Around 20% of the company's UK retail sales are made online.
FTSE 100
The UK's flagship share index, the FTSE 100, was up 55-points at 8,203 shortly after opening this morning.
Brent crude oil futures were up 0.62%, trading at $82.43 a barrel.
Companies reporting today
- IP Group - AGM Statement
- Molten Ventures - Full Year Results
- Safestore Holdings - Half Year Results