Command chain gets shake-up at Laura Ashley

Laura Ashley has rejigged its chain of command, handing responsibility for trading in fashion and home to joint chief operating officer Iain Nairn.

Nairn splits chief operating duties with Mike Kingsbury, who previously handled the home division. The fashion team previously reported to joint chief executive Rebecca Navarednam.

The change is intended to boost the performance of the stores. Kingsbury will concentrate on retail operations.

Laura Ashley is pinpointing the successful elements of a new fashion look that has been introduced in a dozen stores, before proceeding with a second tranche of conversions.