Spire Healthcare Sets January Deadline for Potential Takeover Interest
Spire Healthcare has set a deadline of 20 January for potential suitors to register their interest in a possible takeover, though this is not a formal bid deadline. The move indicates the board's intent to explore strategic options to maximise shareholder value in early 2026. The board is chaired by Sir Ian Cheshire, with financial advisory support from Rothschild.
Spire Healthcare operates 38 hospitals and over 50 clinics across the UK, making it the largest provider of hip and knee operations in the country. Its network also includes private GP practices and corporate occupational health services. The company's CEO is Justin Ash.
Advisers have informed private equity firms and other interested parties to register their interest by the January deadline. Discussions are ongoing and involve major investors, including the activist Achilles trust.
Spire's shares have declined by more than 25% over the past year, with a current market capitalisation of approximately £672 million. Its real estate assets are valued at over £1.4 billion. The stock closed at 167p on 31 December 2025. Spire declined to comment specifically on the deadline.
Background context includes indications in September that Spire was examining its options including a potential sale. Notably, a previous offer from Ramsay Healthcare of £2.50 per share was rejected in 2021.
