// Ray Kelvin considers private equity buy-out of Ted Baker, the retailer he founded
// Kelvin quit as CEO in December following sexual harassment allegations coming to light
// Kelvin has denied all allegations of misconduct
Ted Baker founder and former chief executive Ray Kelvin is reportedly considering a private equity buy-out of the fashion retailer.
The news comes just after Kelvin quit in December after allegations of sexual harassment, including a “forced hugging” culture.
Kelvin, who still owns about a third of Ted Baker, has said he would support a buyout that would take the company private, the Mail on Sunday reports.
Since Kelvin’s resignation, an internal independent committee has been investigating the claims and law firm Herbert Smith Freehills is investigating the sexual harassment allegations.
Kelvin has denied all allegations of misconduct.
Meanwhile, Kelvin’s interest in a buy-out was described as “discreet’” and it remains uncertain as to whether he is acting on his interest or whether advisers have been brought on board.
However, the hugging row, which came to light through an online petition on Organise, might discourage some private equity firms.
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