THE SEASON OF M&A: BIDDING ON L&T, JONES ENTERS SECOND ROUND.(Eddie Bauer Holdings Inc.)(Federated Department Stores Inc.)(Jones Apparel Group Inc.)(Lord & Taylor)

Publication: WWD

Publication Date: 30-MAY-06

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COPYRIGHT 2006 Fairchild Publications, Inc.

Byline: Vicki M. Young

NEW YORK - Those high-earning investment bankers can forget the beach: This summer is likely to be a busy time on the M&A front.

As private equity and real estate players continue to eye the retail and apparel sectors, several major deals are entering their concluding phases, including a disposal of Lord & Taylor, the sale of Jones Apparel Group and a possible sale of Eddie Bauer. Some or all of these deals could be completed by the steamy month of August.

Among the latest developments:

Federated Department Stores Inc. received multiple offers for its Lord & Taylor business last week, and has narrowed the field to 10 bids. The process now moves into a second round.

Federated is also working on a sale of David's Bridal, financial sources said, and the retailer has sent out...

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