UK-based supermarket chain Sainsbury’s has made a last-minute rescue bid for the Planet Organic brand, Sky News reported.

Sainsbury’s reportedly planned to acquire Planet Organic’s name and intellectual property assets.

If agreed upon, the deal is expected to be implemented through an insolvency process.

However, the news service company citing retail industry sources reported that the proposed offer was “speculative” and there is no certainty of a deal taking place.

The news comes after retailers, including Waitrose, negotiated with Planet Organic’s advisers at Interpath Advisory about a potential deal.

Last week, health foods chain Holland & Barrett also considered making a last-minute bid for the supermarket chain.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

In addition, an investment vehicle, Redbus Ventures, also made an offer for the organic food and personal care chain.

Sky News reported that in March 2023, Planet Organic filed a notice of intention (NOI) to appoint administrators amid rescue deal talks.

The NOI is expected to be extended this week, which will be followed by a resolution on a deal.

Meanwhile, the news service company warns of a substantial number of redundancies.

The organic food and consumer products chain reportedly employs 360 people.

Last week, Planet Organic chief executive George Dymond was quoted by Sky News as saying: “Since the beginning of the year, we have been in advanced discussions with a potential investor with a view to them supporting the business, putting a platform in place to enable us to achieve this growth.

“Regrettably and unexpectedly these discussions ended last Friday without an investment being agreed. This is largely because of the current uncertainty in the retail sector, as well as market caution more broadly.

“This unfortunately means that the future of Planet Organic is currently uncertain.

“We are still working hard alongside our advisors to explore alternative options to secure investment which will enable us to preserve our amazing business and we remain in dialogue with a number of other interested parties.”