Danone not bidding for Numico, report

French yoghurt and biscuit maker Danone said today that it is not looking to acquire the Dutch infant nutrition firm Numico, after rumours that Danone was making a bid pushed up the Dutch group's shares.

A report in the French financial weekly Challenges had suggested that Danone was considering a significant acquisition as a means of protecting his group against takeover attempts, and could be looking at a bid for Numico.

The speculation was fuelled by Natexis Bleichroeder analysts after a private visit to Danone, the report said.

However, a spokesperson from each company confirmed to Reuters this morning that there were no takeover discussions between the two firms.

"Danone is not making an offer for Numico," a spokeswoman told the news serivce.

Numico's head office also confirmed it was not in talks with Danone over a potential takeover.