Breakfast briefing: Retail news on Kiddicare, Sunday trading and Mothercare

Sainsbury’s not supportive of Sunday trading hours

Sainsbury’s former boss Justin King, who departed the retailer at its AGM yesterday, said the grocer is against moves to relax Sunday trading rules in England and Wales. King, speaking to BBC Business, said: “We are not supportive of it. It is not a big issue for customers.The status quo is a very happy British compromise.” Parliament is due to consider relaxing the laws in the Autumn.

Endless close to clinch acquisition of Kiddicare

Kiddicare may be sold as soon as this week as prviate equity firm Endless is on the verge of seeing off competition from rival bidder Better Capital for the maternity chain, according to Sky News. A deal had not yet been officially reached with Endless, however people close to the situation said that Endless and Morrisons could announce a transaction as soon as tomorrow.

Mothercare appoints interim boss Mark Newton-Jones as permanent chief executive

Mothercare has appointed interim boss Mark Newton-Jones as its permanent chief executive. The maternity specialist said Newton-Jones will be appointed to the board on July 17. Newton-Jones has been in the interim role since March. Mothercare chairman Alan Parker said: “Mark has made a substantial difference to the UK business already in the four months he has been with us and is a first-class retailer with a highly successful track record.