Specialist tea, coffee and tabletop retailer Whittard of Chelsea was rescued just before Christmas in a 'pre-pack' buyout agreement.
A deal was struck to sell Whittard before the company was placed in administration. The buyers, private equity group Epic, have safeguarded almost 1,000 jobs, although it is not yet clear if all 130 outlets in the chain will remain in operation.

Epic also owns lighting retailer Ryness Electrical and men's fashion label Kilgour among other concerns.