English billionaire businessman and owner of sports retail groups
Frasers Group has announced a cash offer of €38 per share to acquire the remaining shares of Hugo Boss, valuing the German luxury brand at about €1.98bn. The bid aims to take full control of Hugo Boss as Frasers continues its strategy of expanding upmarket brands. Hugo Boss will examine the proposal and may put it to a vote subject to regulatory clearances.
Harvey Nichols has been put up for sale and is undergoing a turnaround led by Frasers Group. The six-storefront estate, including Edinburgh’s flagship, will continue operating while a broader restructuring is pursued, with potential integration of Flannels and the wider Frasers luxury ecosystem.
Scottish Water executives have received substantial performance payments amid rising household bills and ongoing sewage concerns. Critics say payouts undermine public trust as the government grapples with wage and bonus controls in the sector.
Frasers founder has warned the high street could be "further devastated" without major business-rate cuts, criticizing the Prime Minister's approach while Downing Street promises action to back British business. The exchange highlights a broader push to reform rates for pubs, clubs and live venues as part of a wider cost-of-living agenda.