Safran in exclusive talks to acquire Zodiac Aerospace

French aerospace firm Safran has revealed it is in exclusive negotiations to acquire seating and cabin interior manufacturer Zodiac Aerospace, in a deal that would rank it as the third largest aerospace firm. Zodiac chairman Olivier Zarrouati said the merger, which would create a company with a E21.2b turnover, represents a new step in the consolidation of the aerospace industry. A previous takeover attempt by Safran failed in 2010 after it was rejected by Zodiac’s board. If the deal goes ahead, the combined companies would rank as the third largest aerospace company in the world, with around 92,000 employees, E21.2b in revenue and a E2.7b operating income. They will also rank as the second largest aircraft equipment supplier, with revenues of around E10b. <br/>