(Reuters) – German group Robert Bosch is considering launching a takeover bid for U.S. company Whirlpool, according to three people familiar with the matter, which would allow it to strengthen its position in the household appliances market.
Bosch is talking with potential advisers about making an offer for Whirlpool, which has a market capitalization of about $4.8 billion (4.49 billion euros), said one of the sources, who wished to remain anonymous.
However, it is not certain that an offer will be made, these sources said.
A Bosch spokesperson said the company does not comment on market speculation. Whirlpool officials were not immediately available to respond to a request for comment.
Acquiring one of the world’s largest white goods makers would significantly strengthen Bosch’s appliance business amid growing competition with Asian rivals.
Whirlpool has carried out a major restructuring in recent years, leading to the integration of its European operations into a new company controlled by its Turkish competitor Arcelik and the sale of its activities in the Middle East and Africa.
(Anirban Sen in New York and Emma-Victoria Farr in Frankfurt, with contributions from Josephine Mason; Dagmarah Mackos)
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