Bunzl plc reported that overall trading has been consistent with its expectations in the third quarter 2009, with revenue rising 8% due to the positive impact of exchange rate moves. Underlying revenue for the quarter was down around 1%, while overall margins improved due to the group's cost-cutting program.

Bunzl plc announced on October 19, 2009 that the company is in talks with possible acquisition targets. The company said, “While acquisitions remain a key component of Bunzl's strategy and discussions continue with a number of potential targets, the difference in the company's price expectations and those of prospective sellers continues to be an impediment to finalizing transactions.”

Bunzl plc appointed Philip Rogerson as its new chairman, succeeding Jeff Harris, who is retiring as interim chairman. The group said Rogerson will join the board as chairman designate on Jan. 1 and will become chairman with effect from March 1, 2010. Rogerson intends to retire from his present positions of chairman of Northgate plc and non-executive director of Davis Service Group plc, He will remain as chairman of Aggreko and Carillion.