Next is reportedly exploring a rescue offer for premium womenswear brand LK Bennett.
The fashion and homewares giant is said to be considering a low-ball bid for the brand, which is facing deepening financial distress.
According to Sky News, any deal would likely focus on the brand name and online operations, rather than any remaining physical stores. Alongside Next, Phase Eight and Hobbs-owner TFG London are also said to be interested in making offers.
The fashion label was founded by Linda Bennett in the 1990s and has grown from a single store in Wimbledon to a 200-store estate at its peak in the 2000s, worn by the likes of the Princess of Wales and former prime minister Theresa May, but has faced financial difficulty in recent years, now operating nine standalone stores and employing around 280 people.
The retailer recently took steps that could end in a formal insolvency process if a buyer or investor cannot be found.
If Next were to buy the brand, LK Bennett would join the growing stable of upmarket British brands rescued from the brink of collapse by the retailer, including Cath Kidston, Seraphine and Joules.
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