Former Asda chairman and chief executive Andy bond has been named chairman of private equity-backed fashion retailer Republic.

Bond, who stood down from Asda last week, takes up the Republic role with immediate effect.

Private equity group TPG bought 113-store Republic in June last year for £300m and Bond will help drive further growth at the branded clothing specialist.

Republic chief executive Tim Whitworth said Bond “brings not only a wealth of experience from his days at George and Asda, but shares our thirst to take Republic into a new era of development.”

Bond has also become chairman of forecourt retailer Euro Garages, which has partnerships with businesses including Spar and Greggs.

Bond, who has taken an equity stake in Republic and Euro Garages, said: “There has never been a more important time to support enterprise in the UK and in particular those companies that will deliver economic growth and sustainable jobs.

“As an investor manager, I hope to play a part in encouraging a new generation of entrepreneurs.”