Spire Healthcare in Talks Over £1 Billion Takeover Bid

Spire Healthcare has entered early stage discussions with Toscafund Asset Management regarding a possible cash takeover bid that would value the company at £1.01 billion. The proposed offer of 250p a share comes from the firm's second-largest shareholder, which already owns 18 percent of Spire Healthcare.

Mediclinic remains the largest shareholder with nearly 30 percent ownership. The talks follow multiple previous proposals from Toscafund during a strategic review launched in September 2025. The board stated that it had carefully considered the proposal together with its advisers.

It concluded the possible cash offer is at a value that the board would be minded to recommend unanimously to Spire Healthcare shareholders. >"Over multiple years, Spire Healthcare has made significant progress in strengthening care quality, diversifying revenue streams and driving efficiencies.

Spire Healthcare runs 38 private hospitals and more than 60 clinics across England, Wales and Scotland. It also operates a network of private GPs and provides workplace health services to more than 1,400 employers. Shares in the FTSE 250-listed company rose 45 percent in morning trading on Thursday to nearly 220p each.

Background to the Approach The latest proposal follows a lengthy period of bid speculation surrounding the group. The company has previously received approaches from Toscafund while conducting its strategic review. The board has expressed confidence in the firm's standalone prospects even while engaging in talks over the potential takeover.

Any final agreement would remain subject to due diligence and shareholder approval.