Moto eyes up Sagem - reports

Handset giant Motorola is reported to be interested in buying French phone and fax manufacturer, Sagem.

A report in Le Figaro says an executive from Moto has confirmed its interest in the French company.

Ron Garriques, head of Motorola’s mobile devices business, told the French newspaper: “We have a serious interest in Sagem. It’s an option for an industry that’s in the middle of consolidation.”

Garriques went on to explain that it is Sagem’s staff that interests Motorola and that “the brand, the technology aren’t the main elements that matter to me. For me, like for my competitors, the management team at Sagem is perhaps one of the most respected in the sector”.

Sagem has responded to the reports expressing “with satisfaction” Motorola’s interest, however, the firm said it is still considering its options.

Moto bought Symbol in September for $3.9bn.