What: Central Group aims to strengthen its control over Selfridges following the news of Signa group assets being put up for sale.

Why it is important: As Signa faces well-publicized challenges, Central Group is poised to capitalize on the situation, potentially consolidating its position within Selfridges Group.

Central initially gained majority ownership of the Selfridges operating company and is now expected to pursue the property division as well. Signa's property unit, Signa Prime Selection, has filed for insolvency, signaling the potential sale of assets valued at around €19.3 billion to recover creditors' money. The Selfridges property company is currently in talks for fresh funding with its backers. Central's interest in bolstering its hold on Selfridges Group is highlighted by its conversion of a loan into equity, equipping it with majority ownership of the operating division. The collaboration between Selfridges Central and Signa led to the acquisition of Selfridges Group for approximately £4 billion, with both parties owning a 50% stake.

Central likely to boost control of Selfridges as property assets come up for sale