John Lewis's new chairwoman Sharon White, is continuing to show that she doesn't feel tied by decisions taken under her predecessor and is ready to launch a strategic review of the business, according to a report.

An earlier review under previous chairman Sire Charlie Mayfield resulted in major changes in the organisation of the company's two retail chains, with John Lewis department stores and Waitrose being brought closer together. A number of respected senior executives left the company as a result.

Another review coming so soon into White's tenure is leading some analysts to believe that she could undo some of the decisions taken previously.