LPP, which designs and makes clothes under five brands including its main label Reserved, is primarily based in eastern and central Europe but has been turning its sights westward in ­recent years, with around 20 stores in Germany and plans for flagships in ­Milan and Paris.

The expansion is in the works ­despite carnage on British high street.

New Look, a rival mid-market fashion brand, went through insolvency proceedings earlier in the year and House of Fraser was rescued from ­administration by Mike Ashley’s Sports Direct last month after struggling with soaring labour and property costs.