In the bidding for Rodale, one of the most intriguing names to emerge as a potential suitor is 140-year-old Swedish conglomerate Axel Johnson.

The privately held Stockholm company, with holdings in energy and trade but with no media ties, has maintained a New York operation since 1920.

While Rodale is said to have revenue of around $225 million and a profit of $17 million, Axel Johnson could easily afford it.

It has more than 19,000 employees worldwide and revenue last year of over $8.7 billion. The company is interested in long-term investments and “ethical entrepreneurship,” according to its Web site.

The company did not reply to requests for comment.

Potential suitors for Rodale have until Aug. 3 to submit bids.

Others in the running include Hearst, Merdith, Bonnier and Ziff-Davis.

David Zinczenko, the former editorial director of Rodale’s Men’s Health, who now runs Galvanized Media, is also said to be looking to team up with someone in an acquisition.

Allen & Co. is heading up the process for Rodale.