UK fashion retailer Internacionale has bought 85 stores across the UK from Leonard Curtis, the appointed administrator of discount fashion chain Mark One, securing some 800 jobs.

UK fashion retailer Internacionale has bought 85 stores across the UK from Leonard Curtis, the appointed administrator of discount fashion chain Mark One, securing some 800 jobs. The terms of the deal were undisclosed.

Internacionale currently occupies 200,000 sq ft of retail space, comprising 66 stores in the North of England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The new stores will strengthen the company’s position throughout the UK, particularly in the Midlands and Southern England.

Managing director Nigel Fisher commented: “At a time when retail is particularly tough, we are delighted not only to add to our store portfolio, but also to help preserve many jobs following Mark One’s administration last week.”

Appointed administrators to the 125 Mark One stores Neil Bennett and Michael Healy of Leonard Curtis said: “We are evaluating the remaining stores although if purchasers cannot be found these may also have to close.”