The Blackstone Group is running a parallel sale process for portfolio company SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, according to Reuters. SeaWorld filed for an IPO last month, but reportedly has held “early talks with interested parties to explore whether a private sale could fetch more.” www.seaworld.com
CMC Consulting Group, a Germany–based healthcare strategy and M&A advisory firm, has acquired Johnston Blakely & Co., a Boston-based provider of private equity placement and M&A advisory services to the life sciences sector. No financial terms were disclosed. www.cmc-co.net
Esco Technologies (NYSE: ESE) has acquired the assets of Metrum Technologies LLC, a Waco, Texas-based provider of wireless communications technology for meter reading and smart grid products. No financial terms were disclosed. www.metrum.us
Metrolube Enterprises Inc., a Marlborough, Mass.-based Valvoline Instant Oil Change franchisee, has acquired Southern Express Lubes Inc., a chain of 40 quick lube stores in Florida. No financial terms were disclosed. Cross Keys Capital managed the process.
WPP (LSE: WPP) has invested $70 million for a 20% stake in Argentina-based IT services company Globant. Existing Globant shareholders include Riverwood Capital, FTV Capital and Endeavor Capital. www.wpp.com
Abbott Labs, Johnson & Johnson and Sanofi have shown interest acquiring in eye-care company Bausch & Lomb Inc., according to Bloomberg. Warburg Pincus bought B&L in late 2007 for $4.5 billion (including debt), and is seeking more than $10 billion in a sale. www.warburgpincus.com
Shutterfly (Nasdaq: SFLY) is in talks to acquire ThisLife, a Palo Alto, Calif.-based photo and personal publishing company, according to TechCrunch. The deal reportedly would be valued at around $25 million. ThisLife investors include Madrona Venture Group, Rogers Ventures and Morado Venture Partners. www.shutterfly.com
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