Report: Heidelberg, manroland in Merger Talks

PHILADELPHIA—A merger might not have worked out for Quebecor World and RR Donnelley, but that apparently hasn't stopped two of the biggest press manufacturers from discussing the possibility of joining forces. Heidelberger Druckmaschinen and manroland AG are reportedly in merger talks, according to Bloomberg News.

Bloomberg, quoting financial newsletter Platow Brief, said that German insurer Allianz SE—which holds a 12 percent share in Heidelberg and a 65 percent stake in manroland—is pressuring the companies to merge and protect its investments. Platow did not cite a source for the information, according to Bloomberg.

Mattias Hartung, who serves corporate communications for Heidelberg, told Bloomberg, "These are market rumors and we don't comment on market rumors."

A spokesman for manroland did not respond to a Printing Impressions request for comment.