25/02/2009

BHS And Arcadia To Merge

Retail mogul Sir Philip Green is set to merge his two largest fashion groups, it has been reported.

Senior staff at Sir Philip's BHS and Arcadia operations - which have until now functioned as two separate businesses - have been informed that Arcadia will incorporate BHS as one of its brands, such is the case with Topshop, Dorothy Perkins and Burton.

It is expected the move will create job losses, as BHS will reportedly share logistics, marketing departments and financial functional area with Arcadia.

A trial 'house of brands' was launched in Petersborough recently, which is believed could become a model for the merger.

Sir Philip is likely to save cash running as many stores as possible under one roof.

It is thought that after consultation with staff and subsequent planning, the entire process could take up to two years to implement.

A spokesman for Arcadia today said: "We are looking to use the group's resources in the best way possible."

Sir Philip is currently focusing on launching his first New York Topshop store in the coming months.

The retail boss bought BHS in 2000, buying out Arcadia two years later.

(PR/JM)

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