I agree CPB acquiring XRF makes no sense. However, I would be surprised if XRF was not acquired by someone at some point.
Terry Sweet sold Scientific Services (ASX listed) to SGS back in 2001 if my memory serves me correctly.
The corporate synergies to an acquirer of XRF would be significant relative to XRF's standalone profit.
An acquisition of XRF by SND would surprise me, but I would not be surprised if a company like FLSmidth (acquired Essa) or Ludowici (LDW) would not.
I always thought ESS and XRF should have merged when they were both listed.
Read the interview about FLSmidth's acquisition of ESS on the Essa website - I would have thought XRF would be a perfect bolt on for them - sample preparation/equipment and automation.
Anyway just my opinion as a biased XRF shareholder
Cheers
XRF Price at posting:
22.5¢ Sentiment: LT Buy Disclosure: Held
