The offer made last month by UK newspaper publisher Claverley Group – owners of the Wolverhampton Express and Star, Britain’s biggest regional newspaper – was declared unconditional yesterday, with nearly 95% of shareholders having already accepted the bid.
The announcement marks the end of 113 years of control of the JEP by members of the family descended from its founder, Walter Guiton.
However, founding family member Senator Frank Walker will continue as non-executive chairman for the foreseeable future.Claverley, which is also a family-based organisation, has applied to cancel the trading of Guiton shares on the London Stock Exchange, to take effect from start of business on 24 December.The cash offer of £2.80 per share will remain open for acceptance until further notice.
Shareholders who wish to accept the offer but have not yet done so have been advised to send in their acceptance form as soon as possible.
