"Strategic partner" is quite a euphemistic term and we should be careful about using it. It can cover a multitude of corporate "sins".
First off, what is the strategy/long term plan of the EI board and the intentions of the EI share holders?
Secondly, what partners are needed/wanted/useful in achieving those ends?
If your goal is just to sell your shares then any buyer is a "strategic partner". If you have a different view and want to grow your company then anyone who can bring resources that promote, nurture and assist in that goal fits the bill.
Do we have any clear indication from EI or any EI share holders on their position or plan? What would a "partner" look like?
A full take over buyer is only a "strategic partner" when your plan is to be bought. Of late, EI has shown it can independently survive and deliver some growth in the face of a less than favourable environment that includes very stiff competition and difficult economic conditions. IMHO, it doesn't necessairly need to be taken over in order to continue and prosper, however, additional growth options may exist with the right partner, while other avenues may severely curtail future options.
Then there's the awkward question of what if one share holder were to see subjective strategic opportunities for themselves in the disposal of their holding to a third party that might not result in with the best for the organisation and/or other stake holders? In that case, the potential buyer is most definitely a "strategic partner" for that one seller.
JAS