Another break with the past for Laura Ashley
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.LAURA ASHLEY, the troubled women's fashion retailer that was rescued by a Malaysian group in April, made another break with the past yesterday with the surprise announcement that Sir Bernard Ashley is retiring from the group with immediate effect.
Sir Bernard, the widower of Laura Ashley, who founded the company in 1953, is 71 but had not been expected to retire. At the company's annual meeting in London yesterday he was listed to seek re-election as a non- executive director but opted to step down instead.
The company said that following the pounds 44m cash injection by the Malaysian backers, MUI, Sir Bernard felt the company was on a more stable footing and that the timing was right for him to go.
However, Nicholas Ashley, Sir Bernard's son, is joining the board as a non-executive, so the family connection will remain.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments