BBC news and archive

Sports Direct makes shock bid for Austin Reed

Although Mike Ashley, owner of sportswear group Sports Direct, reportedly has his sights set on taking over British Home Stores (BHS), it seems as if the billionaire has also tossed his hat in the ring for clothing retailer Austin Reed. Mike Ashley eyes up Austin Reed and BHS Last month saw both department store group BHS and Austin Reed enter...

Fashion

New documentary: Clothes to Die For

This week the BBC2 aired its documentary, Clothes to Die For. A behind the scenes look at the Rana Plaza garment factory disaster in Bangladesh, the documentary shows how harrowing the clothing industry can be. While western shoppers continue to search for the best bargains and cheapest clothes, workers in Rana Plaza reported they were earning...

Apparel

Retailers seek assurance from Cambodia

The volatile situation in Cambodia has left international retailers wanting assurances to be able to continue manufacturing and sourcing. Companies such as Marks & Spencer, Debenhams, Next and Primark all have supplier ties to Cambodia and will want to know how the country's apparel workers are being protected after police shot at workers...