JD eyeing rugby swoop

STRICKEN North West sportswear company Canterbury Europe is attracting interest from JD Sports Fashion, the successful retail chain.

The company, a subsidiary of New Zealand rugby brand Canterbury Group – which was not affected by insolvency – was placed into administration last Monday with the loss of 72 out of 84 staff.

Bury-based JD Sports Fashion is understood to be running the rule over the business with a view to a possible bid.

It has also recently been linked with a move for another rugby brand, KooGa, which is owned by struggling high street rival JJB Sports.

It could make a move for both brands, which combined could be an attractive proposition.

JD, led by charismatic executive chairman Petet Cowgill, has already proved it is not afraid of making acquisitions in this market, having taken its first steps out of the UK with the acquisition of French chain Chausport.

Canterbury Europe was hit by tough trading and the weak pound. As well as rugby it had expanded into football, cricket and golf, aklthough all its sponsorship deals were terminated as a result of the insolvency.