Value homewares retailer Au Naturale has been acquired out of administration by an unnamed buyer.

Administrator PricewaterhouseCoopers said the sale of 46 stores would save more than 550 jobs.

The retailer was formerly part of Ossian Retail – along with value fashion brand Internaçionale – before distressed debt specialist Agilo bought out its debt in April. The next day, 31 stores were sold to Opus Estates.

Au Naturale and Internaçionale were placed into administration a month later, after the retailers suffered from the economic downturn and supply chain difficulties.

The latest development, along with the sale of Internaçionale to an undisclosed overseas retailer last week, means that, combined, the deals have preserved 1,900 out of 2,200 jobs.

PwC joint administrator and partner Graham Martin said: “I am delighted we have managed to secure a sale that not only preserves a strong high street brand, but also protects the employment of 550 people.”

The administrator will continue to trade the remaining 13 Au Naturale stores while reviewing its options.