Dublin-based credit referencing agency Experian says it is in advanced discussions regarding the sale of its transaction processing units in France.
In a statement responding to press speculation, Experian says it is in "exclusive advanced discussions" with Doc@Post, a subsidiary of the French post office, and private equity firm Advent International which "may lead to the divestment of these activities".
In January Experian kicked off an $80 million cost cutting programme following a poor third quarter which saw the firm hit by the credit crunch.
As part of the strategic review the firm said it was reviewing its French transaction processing activities "and their fit within the Experian portfolio".
For the year ending 31 March 2007, revenues for the unit, which processes cheques and credit card payments, were $308 million, with low double-digit margins.