Alexon has turned the screws on its suppliers in the run-up to the challenging Christmas period.

In a letter sent to suppliers, the fashion group - which includes brands such as Ann Harvey, Dash, Eastex and Bay Trading - is demanding changes to its supplier discount terms.

Alexon said in the letter that its Ann Harvey chain was changing its supplier discount terms to 5 per cent with effect for deliveries from November 10.

Bay Trading has sent a similar letter asking for discount terms of 3 per cent.

The retailer said the decision will standardise terms for suppliers at each of the brands and bring them in line with the rest of the marketplace.

Alexon’s group finance director Robin Piggott blamed the “significant challenges” it, like many other fashion chains, is facing during the downturn.

Alexon's move follows the strategies employed by fashion retailers including Moss Bros, Figleaves and House of Fraser.