Deals

Topcon Gets Buyout Bids From KKR, EQT as Japan M&A Heats Up

  • Medical gear maker is under pressure from activist investor
  • More Japan companies are going private as PE funds circle

Topcon Corp. is weighing takeover bids from suitors including KKR & Co. and EQT AB, the latest sign of escalating buyout activity in Japan.

The Tokyo-based eye-care equipment maker held its first round of bids in September, narrowing the offers to those from KKR and EQT, according to people familiar with the matter. The government-backed Japan Investment Corp. also plans to submit an offer in the second round, which may take place by the end of December, said the people, who asked not to be identified discussing matters that are not public.