Boots, the British chemist chain, is reportedly in early-stage sale talks with multiple potential buyers, including the billionaire family that owns Primark, in a deal that could value the company at £7.5bn.
Potential Buyers
The Weston family, which owns Primark through its majority stake in Associated British Foods (ABF), is one of the parties in discussions. The other is Sigma Healthcare, an Australian pharmaceutical group. Reports emerged on Tuesday via the Financial Times.
Early-Stage Talks
Sources indicate that the talks are at an early stage, and other potential buyers may still come forward. Sycamore Partners, the private equity firm that acquired Boots' parent company for $23.7bn in 2025, has been in discussions with multiple parties since the start of the year.
Boots' Financial Performance
The news comes as Boots revealed a 25% increase in profits to £337m last year, driven by demand for weight-loss jabs, vaccinations, and beauty products.
Weston Family's UK Ties
If successful, the acquisition would strengthen the Weston family's ties to UK business, following the sale of the majority of Selfridges Group for around £4bn in 2021.
Sigma Healthcare's Ambitions
Sigma Healthcare, a fast-growing Australian healthcare group, has expressed aspirations to expand internationally and recently entered the UK market through a pharmacy joint venture in and around London.
New Leadership
Former Currys boss Alex Baldock is expected to become Boots' new chief executive later this year. Boots declined to comment on the sale talks.
