Merger and takeovers

The numbers of domestic or cross-border takeovers involving UK companies were at very low levels, according to official figures.

In 2013, there were 135 inward acquisitions — the lowest number recorded since 2009 when there were 112. The total value of inward acquisitions increased to £31.1 billion from £17.4 billion in 2012, but was still the second lowest sum recorded since 2004.

There were 240 mergers or takeovers in the UK by UK companies last year, marginally down on the 2012 figure of 266, but the 2013 figure was the lowest since 2004. In terms of value, the 2013 total of £7.7 billion was more than double the £3.4 billion total in 2012, otherwise it was the lowest sum since 2004.

The total number of takeovers made by UK companies abroad during last year was just 50 — down from 122 the year before. However, the Office for National Statistics does not give a value for them.

www.ons.gov.uk/ons/dcp171778_354766.pdf