Around the Net

Antitrust Decision Could Make Booksellers' Merger Possible

Some analysts say that a federal antitrust ruling involving the combination of Whole Foods Market and Wild Oats Markets last week enhance the chances of a merger between Borders and Barnes & Noble.

The merger closely mirrors a potential deal between Borders and B&N and "could be perceived as a potential new precedent and open up meaningful discussions," writes David Schick, an analyst at Stifel Nicolaus & Co., in a report to investors.

The talk of a potential merger of Borders and Barnes & Noble comes as both firms struggle against online rivals, such as Amazon.com, and big-box retailers, such as Target. Online stores often offer lower prices, and big-box stores supply a much wider selection than in the past. Spokesmen for both booksellers decline to comment on any hypothetical deal between the two companies.

advertisement

advertisement

Read the whole story at The Detroit News »

Next story loading loading..