Analysts had expected revenue of 595 million pounds and adjusted pretax profit of 101 million according to a Reuters poll of three brokers and four brokers respectively.

The group also raised its interim dividend by 9 percent, but the shares still slipped 0.1 percent to 417.75 pence in an overall lower market.

"We are pleased with the strong start we have made to the year," Chairman Derek Mapp said. "Our results are underpinned by the high volume of subscription income and the resilient performance of our branded large scale exhibitions and conferences.

"Our ability to convert profits into cash remains extremely strong and we are trading well within our banking covenants. We remain confident of the group’s full-year prospects."

Media stocks in Britain have been hit hard in recent months over concerns about the strength of advertising markets. But advertising only makes up 3 percent of Informa’s revenues and Mapp said he was delighted with how the group was coping in the tougher economic conditions.

Analysts at Numis welcomed the good results and said Informa had benefited from the fact its large conferences were "must-attend" events.

"Earnings visibility and current booking trends give the management confidence for the group’s full year prospects," Numis said in a note to clients.

"Recent press speculation suggests the consortium has completed its due diligence and we view a firm offer as likely in the short term."

Analysts at UBS said they believed both sides were keen to do a deal but warned Informa could fall to trade around 350 pence if the deal breaks. UBS sees 15 to 25 percent upside risk should the deal go through.

(Reporting by Kate Holton; Editing by David Holmes and David Cowell)