B2B publisher Informa said “talks are continuing” with the three-strong consortium of private equity firms that approach it for a possible acquisition last month. But there was not a more concrete update, as the group reported 10 percent better adjusted profit of £104.7 million, on 18 percent better revenue of £627.6 million, for the first six months of 2008.

SEE ALSO: Informa Confirms Tentative Bid From 3 PE Players; Values Company At $6.8 Billion

The group attributed much of the growth to its exhibitions and conferences. It also said it’s benefiting from electronic journal delivery and print-on-demand books, though Informa lists “dependency on internet and electronic delivery platforms” in its latest annual report. Informa’s Telecoms & Media business pulled in 58.4 percent more revenue at £52.1 thanks to some acquisitions. The company suggested it can weather the economic storm, saying trading is “strong”: “With only three percent of our annual revenues derived from advertising, we have a resilient subscription based publishing business with a good balance of print and online offerings.”

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