Mike Ashley’s Frasers Group has gatecrashed the sales process for Harvey Nichols, defying initial objections from some of its brands.

It all looked so straightforward until Frasers Group entered the auction. Now the future of Harvey Nichols is up for grabs, as two very different potential futures await.

Mike Ashley’s Frasers Group has gatecrashed the sales process for Harvey Nichols, defying initial objections from some of its brands.

Mike Ashley’s Frasers Group has seen profit jump as it pursues a turnaround, driven by its recent spree of takeover bids for rival retailers.