US private equity firm KKR is reportedly considering selling its majority stake in Japanese supermarket chain Seiyu, in a deal estimated to be worth several hundred billion yen (equivalent to several billion dollars), according to a report from the Nikkei business daily on Tuesday.
The bidding process is underway, with major retailers such as Aeon, Pan Pacific International Holdings (owner of Don Quijote), and Trial Holdings, as well as investment funds, reportedly submitting bids. The Nikkei did not disclose its sources for the information.
KKR currently owns 85% of Seiyu, with the remaining 15% held by Walmart. The report also suggested that Walmart’s stake is likely to be included in the sale, with a final buyer expected to be selected by February.
When approached for comment, representatives from KKR, Aeon, and Pan Pacific International declined to respond. Trial Holdings did not provide an immediate comment.
