Republic May Consider Splitting Off

In the next two years, Republic Industries Inc. may consider spinning off its waste-management and security businesses into a separate public company, Chairman and Co-Chief Executive H. Wayne Huizenga said. Analysts have advised Republic that it could be valued at a higher price by splitting into two companies once its auto-retailing business is better established. Waste management and security are expected to account for more than $1 billion of the Fort Lauderdale, Fla.-based Republic’s expected $10 billion in revenue this year. Since December, Republic has agreed to acquire 25 auto-dealer groups with about $5.5 billion in annual revenue, making it the largest U.S. auto dealer. Republic shares, which moved to trading on the New York Stock Exchange on Friday, fell 50 cents to close at $25.