The group behind iconic London department store Liberty today confirmed plans for a strategic overhaul as it seeks to expand in the UK and internationally.
The Regent Street retailer is bringing advisers on board for the review amid speculation it is considering selling stakes in the group to fund growth plans.
Liberty - famous for its mock-Tudor building - today said it had enjoyed strong trading in the first half of 2009 and was looking at ways in which the business
The store reported a 9per cent year-on-year increase in annual sales to £50.2million in April, while Christmas sales had come close to record levels as it was likely boosted by foreign tourists taking advantage of the pound's weakness.
It has also recently undergone a major store refurbishment.
Liberty is part of Marylebone Warwick Balfour (MWB), the property firm which also owns the upmarket Malmaison and Hotel du Vin hotel chains.
MWB could see its 68per cent stake reduced or sold on in its entirety if the review results in fundraising from new investors.
Liberty was founded in 1875 by Arthur Liberty, who used a £2,000 loan from his future father-in-law to launch the store with just three staff initially.
The group's Liberty prints are famous around the world and it is renowned for its fashion and home ranges.
Its recent 'renaissance of Liberty' relaunch and store re-fit has been a success, with double digit sales growth over the past five months, according to the group.
But despite recent sales success, Liberty is currently loss-making due to hefty restructuring charges.
It fell deeper into the red last year, reporting pre-tax losses of £7million against £6.4million losses in 2007.
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