Archant has said it is looking to grow its business through acquisitions and strengthen its activities in the South East.

But it would not to comment on any specific merger, acquisition, or sale until any deal was concluded.

The company made a statement following newspaper reports that it had made a bid for Trinity Mirror’s southern titles, which include the South London Press, Reading Chronicle and Croydon Advertiser, which are currently up for sale.

Archant said it was aware of the reports linking it with the possible sale of Trinity Mirror’s regional newspapers, but would not comment specifically in relation to that.

However it said that it was keen to apply its development strategy to new geographic areas, and was “actively engaged” in identifying new opportunities.

A group statement said: “The business has refocussed its territory on England, a process that began with the disposal of its Scottish assets to Johnston Press in April this year.

“It is now looking to strengthen its activities in the South East and, in particular, in geography which fits well with its current footprint.”

It added that it was also looking to strengthen the group through “organic development”, and was involved in a number of initiatives including creating and implementing a clear digital strategy of sites associated with each of its titles and classified sites which use geo coding and mapping.

Archant currently publishes four daily newspapers through its regional division, as well as more than 70 weeklies.

Its London titles include the Hampstead & Highgate Express, Ilford Recorder, East London Advertiser and Hackney Gazette.

Trinity Mirror announced it was putting its London and the South East businesses up for sale in December, along with its titles in the Midlands, following a wide-ranging review of the company.

It would not comment on the reports concerning Archant, but a spokesman said the overall sale process was on track and the group was pleased with the range of bidders and the interest it had received.