Informa, the exhibitions group, has received a second approach, believed to be from a private equity consortium led by Blackstone.

The group disclosed in a statement to the market that it “has received a preliminary approach from a further third party and as a result is providing access to information materials”.

It is understood that Blackstone has obtained information on Informa and is considering an approach with two other private equity groups — Kohlberg Kravis Roberts and Permira. Dubai World Trade Center, one of the largest events organisers in the Middle East, is also reported to be part of the consortium.

Blackstone’s move comes after the interest expressed at the start of this month by a private-equity consortium consisting of Providence Equity, Carlyle Group and Hellman & Friedman, which made an informal approach at 506p a share.

Informa said that discussions continued with Providence, Carlyle and Hellman & Friedman and that there was no certainty as to whether any bid would be made. A further announcement would be made in due course.

There has been concern that Informa’s high debt, of £1.22 billion, will make a private equity bid difficult, although a recent rumour suggested that there may be as many as 16 lending banks involved in the private equity move.

The first approach, made public on July 2, came after Informa’s merger talks with the rival United Business Media (UBM) collapsed. UBM sources yesterday told The Times that it was unlikely to re-enter talks with Informa.

A firm offer would be the largest private equity deal since the credit crunch began last summer. Private equity firms to have looked at Informa in the past include Cinven and Apax.

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