Waterstones is eyeing a stock exchange listing in London or New York while the American private equity owner draws up plans

Waterstone could go public in London or New York under plans drawn up by the American private equity owner.

A source close to Elliott Advisors told the Mail that an IPO is an option for the bookstore.

It comes after boss James Daunt, who joined Waterstones in 2011 and also runs US retailer Barnes & Noble, told the Financial Times that a combined listing would ‘make sense’.

The decision lies with Elliott, who acquired Waterstones in 2018 and Barnes & Noble the following year.

Combined listing: Waterstones boss James Daunt (pictured), also runs US retailer Barnes & Noble

There is no immediate plan to list the companies on the stock exchange, but it is a possible option in the future, a source close to the fund manager said.

A London stock exchange listing would be a huge boost for the city, but it would be a blow to the stock market if Waterstones went to New York.

Elliott declined to comment. Waterstones did not respond to a request for comment.

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