How many morrisons in uk

What now are the chances of copycat bids for the other two large quoted UK supermarket chains, Tesco and J Sainsbury? If the Qataris can be brought on side, Sainsbury's could, perhaps, become a takeover target. Large private equity firms have been targeting UK supermarkets, which they view as undervalued and attractive due to their large property portfolios.

As part of its offer, Fortress has made clear commitments not to sell off any of Morrisons' property and vowed to protect workers' jobs and pay.

Nevertheless, Labour urged ministers to ensure the group's commitments "are legally binding, and met". The Unite union said it would not co-operate with any sale without "unbreakable guarantees" on jobs and conditions. Catherine Shuttleworth, head of retail research agency Savvy, told the BBC's Today programme: "Quite often private equity will look at the potential for growth, and what is there to do in these businesses.

And it may be they think there's a lot more to go there and they could do something with it. She said whoever ended up buying the chain was likely to make changes.

However, they would be expected to stick to their commitments under UK takeover rules. Asda takeover 'could lead to higher petrol prices'. Image source, PA Media. Private equity swoops. Welcome to Morrisons groceries online Food, drink and more to your door. LOG IN. Latest from Morrisons. Let us help. Shop by Aisle. Ideas and Inspiration. Community Champions. Toasty Winter Warmers. The Best. Winter Warmer Recipes. We serve thousands of new customers every week. Join other shoppers in your area, and try Morrisons.

The board, which will meet on Saturday, is now expected to recommend shareholders accept the new offer at a meeting set for 19 October. Morrisons was founded in Bradford in - where it still has its headquarters. The group has almost shops and more than , staff. The private equity firm said it would help Morrisons to build on its strengths, including its close relationships with suppliers and its property portfolio.

Mr Higginson said the offer represented "excellent value for shareholders while at the same time protecting the fundamental character of Morrisons". He said the private equity firm had "a strong record of developing and growing the businesses in which they invest, and they share our vision and ambition for Morrisons".