City File: Predatory Rentokil goes out on a limb

FAITH that Rentokil can meet its claim to raise earnings by 20 per cent each year must now be wearing pretty thin. The surprising increase in the company's offer for Securiguard ensures that it will catch its prey. But what will it do for Rentokil's image in the City?

The offer of 345p a share, up from 270p, has alarmed analysts already wary of Rentokil's interest in the security and communications company. 'Rentokil will have to convince us they haven't overpaid,' one analyst said. 'We need convincing the acquisition will not dilute earnings.'