In the last three years alone, companies such as Prada, Bulgari, Valentino, Salvatore Ferragamo and Tod’s have either been linked to an IPO, have actually listed or have had external investors acquire some or all of their shares. The most recent company linked to either a sale or a possible IPO is Versace.

Grupo Campari, the Italian branded alcoholic beverage provider, yesterday announced its intended acquisition of 81% of the Jamaican rum maker Lascelles de Mercado & Co for USD 414m.
 

When you think of leading cider producing nations, I think it’s fair to say that Belgium doesn’t automatically spring to the forefront of one’s mind. Belgian chocolate, beer and moules-frites are the culinary delights I’m sure most of us associate with the country. However, on Friday it was announced that Netherlands-listed global brewer Heineken had acquired Stassen SA, the Belgium-based cider manufacturer.