Mike Ashley poised to battle Matalan founder John Hargreaves
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Mike Ashley could end up battling to take control of Matalan with its founder John Hargreaves, according to well-placed apparel industry sources
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Bold: Mike Ashley would keep an eye on Matalan
Billionaire Mike Ashley could end up in a battle for control of Matalan with its founder John Hargreaves, according to well-placed clothing industry sources.
The chain’s bondholders put it up for sale last month. Hargreaves stepped down as chairman and said he will try to buy the company.
That could cost him the head to break chains to grow his Sports Direct into the House of Fraser empire.
A source who knows Ashley said he “won’t be able to resist a doll in Matalan” at a discounted price.
Another said Ashley has “unfinished business” with Matalan after failing to close a deal with Hargreaves in 2006 to sell Sports Direct items in his stores.
It’s not clear if Hargreaves and Ashley are talking to each other.
Bondholders must repay £350 million in debt next year.
They have offered to reinvest £200 million if a buyer can be found.