Ultimo lingerie firm ceases trading in the UK Published duration 10 April 2018

image caption The firm announced a closing down sale on its website

The Ultimo underwear firm set up by Michelle Mone is to cease trading in the UK.

The Conservative peer, now known as Baroness Mone of Mayfair, established the lingerie brand in 1996.

The firm achieved international success after actress Julia Roberts reportedly wore an Ultimo bra in the hit film Erin Brockovich.

Lady Mone left the company three years ago, after it was taken over by a large Sri Lankan apparel firm.

Redundancy consultation

The firm announced that, following an extensive review of the business, the operation in the UK will cease trading.

Staff at the Ultimo headquarters in East Kilbride have been informed, with a formal redundancy consultation now under way with the 11 employees at the site.

Retail partners and suppliers have also been told of the decision.

image caption Ultimo was set up by Michelle Mone and her husband in 1996

An Ultimo spokesman said: "The last few years have been extremely challenging for Ultimo, driven by increasing competition in the market and more cautious consumer spending due to the uncertainty surrounding the UK economy over the last 18 months.

"Having reviewed the business' performance over the last three years as well as future prospects and considering the retail environment within which the business is operating, the board has, with regret, decided to cease operations of the Ultimo business in the UK."

The spokesman added the company "would like to thank all staff, customers and suppliers for their commitment, support and loyalty to the Ultimo brand over the years".