Retail news round-up: Shoe Zone in a bid to buy Brantano, online retail sales in the UK increase and lingerie brand Love Stories launches first store in the UK

Shoe Zone bids to buy Brantano

Shoe Zone is competing with Edinburgh Woollen Mill in a bid to buy Brantano, Sky News reported.

PricewaterhouseCoopers is managing the auction.

Shoe Zone and Alteri, owner of Brantano, both declined to comment.

UK online retail sales increases

Online retail sales in the UK increased 15% year-on-year in February, according to data from the IMRG Capgemini e-Retail Sales Index, Drapers reported.

However, the rate of sales growth through smartphones has declined from 96% in 2016 to 57% in 2017, which is specific to online-only retailers.

The average basket value of online retail sales increased nearly £20.

Love Stories launches first UK store

Lingerie and swimwear brand Love Stories, has opened its first store in the UK in Shoreditch, Drapers reported.

Their collections will include the spring 17 Love Stories Intimate and Swimclub wear.

Prices will range from £17 for briefs to £130 for robes.