White Stuff founders George Treves and Sean Thomas are said to have enlisted the expertise of Rothschild, an investment bank, to navigate an offer following an unexpected takeover approach, according to Sky News.

Sky News analysts speculate that White Stuff could potentially fetch a figure in the vicinity of £50m ($63m).

While the founders have not committed to relinquishing control of the chain, City sources, as cited by Sky News, suggest that their decision hinges on the valuation the business commands.

The White Stuff declined to comment on the news at the time of going to press.

White Stuff has cemented its presence as a key player in the British retail industry, boasting a network of over 100 stores across the country. Under the leadership of Jo Jenkins, who assumed the role in 2017 after a tenure at Marks & Spencer (M&S), the company has seen substantial growth, with total sales surging by over 13% in its latest financial year.

With a workforce of 1,200 employees, White Stuff has forged partnerships with well-known retail giants such as John Lewis, Next and M&S who began adding rival clothing guest brands including the White company, on its website in 2021 under the new ‘Brands at M&S’ banner, as part of its efforts to turbocharge online growth.

The White Stuff offers a diverse range of menswear and womenswear and boasts over 500 stockists worldwide.