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TGJones owner Modella weighs takeover of Harvey Nichols, Sky News reports - Finance news and analysis from Global Banking & Finance Review
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TGJones owner Modella weighs takeover of Harvey Nichols, Sky News reports

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on July 20, 2026

2 min read

· Last updated: July 20, 2026

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TGJones owner Modella weighs takeover of Harvey Nichols, Sky News reports

Modella Capital's Interest in Harvey Nichols: Key Details and Industry Context

July 20 (Reuters) - British private equity firm Modella Capital has expressed interest in buying luxury department store chain Harvey Nichols, Sky News reported on Monday, citing industry sources.

Background and Recent Developments

Here are some more details:

Competing Bids and Market Interest

• The investment firm's interest in the luxury retailer comes amid media reports of approaches by major British retailers Next and Frasers.

Uncertainty Around Modella's Intentions

• It is unclear how serious Modella Capital's intentions were for the retailer of everything luxury, ranging from cosmetics and fashion brands to food and wine, the report said.

Modella Capital's Retail Portfolio and Recent Acquisitions

• Modella Capital, which owns retailers such as Hobbycraft and Flying Tiger, recently bought and backed the restructuring of TGJones, WHSmith's former high street arm.

Official Responses from Involved Parties

• Harvey Nichols, Modella, Next and Frasers declined to comment on the matter when asked by Reuters.

• Next and Frasers have not publicly commented on reports of their interest in the brand founded in 1931.

Reporting Credits

(Reporting by Simone Lobo, Krisha Bhatt and DhanushVignesh Babu in Bengaluru; Editing by Devika Syamnath)

Key Takeaways

  • Modella Capital, which rebranded WHSmith’s high‑street business as TGJones and is executing a major restructuring—closing up to 150 stores and investing ~£35m—is now eyeing Harvey Nichols, signaling its ambition to expand beyond value‑oriented retail (costar.com)
  • Next and Frasers Group have also reportedly expressed interest in Harvey Nichols, illustrating a competitive race for the luxury retailer (reddit.com)
  • Modella’s interest comes amid Landmark restructuring of TGJones—which involved rent cuts, potential store closures, and a High Court‑approved turnaround plan—highlighting its active deal‑making and renovation strategy in UK retail (costar.com)

References

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is interested in acquiring Harvey Nichols?
Modella Capital has expressed interest in acquiring Harvey Nichols, according to Sky News reports.
What other companies are linked to potential Harvey Nichols bids?
Major British retailers Next and Frasers have also reportedly shown interest in Harvey Nichols.
What does Modella Capital own?
Modella Capital owns retailers such as Hobbycraft and Flying Tiger, and recently acquired TGJones.
How has Harvey Nichols responded to acquisition interest?
Harvey Nichols has declined to comment on reports regarding acquisition interest.
Has Modella Capital or other interested parties officially commented?
Modella Capital, Next, and Frasers have not immediately responded to Reuters' requests for comment.

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