Russian supermarket group Lenta could attract “good” interest from international investors, if reports the group is preparing to list on the London stock exchange prove accurate.

On Russia-based analyst told just-food the retailer has a number of attributes that could make it an attractive proposition for investors.

“It could attract a good amount of interest. It has decent growth and good margins compared to its peers. It is exposed to a high growth market and it could – at some point down the road – become an acquisition target itself, given the acquisitive nature of Russian retail,” the analyst said on the condition of anonymity.

Lenta declined to comment on rumours that it is preparing an IPO next year. Reports have suggested the group will look to raise around US$1.5bn. The company is owned by private-equity group TPG, Russian bank VTB Capital and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.