Endless Scali merger talks hit a new series of bogs

Inspiration meets innovation at Brandweek, the ultimate marketing experience. Join industry luminaries, rising talent and strategic experts in Phoenix, Arizona this September 23–26 to assess challenges, develop solutions and create new pathways for growth. Register early to save.

The hot-and-cold merger talks to sell WPP Group PLC’s Scali, McCabe, Sloves network to Interpublic’s Lowe & Partners have cooled–some say gone cold– over what sources said are more personality issues and glitches in the due diligence process.
“The talks are on the downside but are not out,” said one source. “The chances now are less than 50% and diminishing.”
Well-placed sources said the latest trouble spot to surface is in Germany where Thomas Rempen, the ceo of Hildmann, Simon, Rempen & Schmitz/SMS Gmbh, SMS’s German office, is unhappy.

AW+

WORK SMARTER - LEARN, GROW AND BE INSPIRED.

Spring Special

Save 30% Off an ADWEEK Subscription Today!

View Your Options

Already a member? Sign in