Wolves deal

WOLVERHAMPTON & Dudley Breweries stepped up the consolidation of the pub sector by announcing a £13.7m offer for a smaller operator.

The brewing and pub firm said it had reached agreement with English Country Inns that would see it take over 14 unbranded pubs in central and southern England.

Takeover talks

CLOTHING retail group Peacock revealed it was in takeover talks for the second time in six months.

The owner of the Peacocks, bonmarche and Fragrance Shop businesses said an approach is in the early stages of discussion.