Bench intellectual property put up for sale

The intellectual property (IP) assets of men's and women's casual wear brand Bench have been put up for sale, following the brand's recent placement in administration.

Its 20 UK stores are currently still trading, along with its 15 stores in Germany, but administrator BDO Stoy Hayward has appointed Metis Partners to support the marketing and sale of the brand's "extensive IP portfolio".

Founded almost 30 years ago, Bench grew to a £150m business by 2011, and was known in particular for its signature branded hoodies, but has recently been hit by difficulties in the UK retail sector and a costly logistics issue in 2016.

"Despite the Company’s current challenges, confidence exists that the Bench brand has continued potential for growth and could have a bright future with the right strategy. Bench is a robust international brand, with a proven track record in retail sales, wholesale, e-commerce and through international licensing agreements in Europe and North America," Metis Partners said.

Interest parties should submit queries and offers directly to Morven Fraser of Metis Partners by noon on Tuesday 15 May 2018.