UK online grocer Ocado has remained silent on speculation that it is in talks over the appointment of advisers ahead of its planned stock market listing.
The company, which has previously indicated that it plans to launch an IPO this year, told just-food today (8 February) that it remains “on track” with its aim.
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However, Ocado declined to comment on speculation that the float could be pulled if market conditions worsen in the coming months.
“We are monitoring conditions,” the spokesperson said.
Ocado also refused to confirm reports that it has entered into discussions with Goldman Sachs, UBS and JP Morgan Cazenove, who are seen as frontrunners to lead the float.
According to the Sunday Times, the company is valued at about GBP1bn (US$1.6bn), with GBP160m to be raised through the IPO.
Currently, the pension fund of UK department store group and Waitrose owner John Lewis Partnership holds 30% of Ocado shares.
Other shareholders include former US vice predident Al Gore’s investment fund and billionaire Jon Rausing. Consumer goods giant Procter & Gamble hold a 1% stake in the company.
