Second thoughts for Happit

MORE than 240 jobs have been saved after the owner of the Happit discount clothing chain was bought out of administration.

Leeds-based 2nd Thoughts fell into the arms of administrators last week, with the closure of 29 stores and the loss of 140 jobs.

But joint administrators Bob Maxwell and Edward Klempka from Begbies Traynor yesterday revealed that the business had been bought for an undisclosed sum by Ellie Louise Trading, a firm owned by the same family who had run 2nd Thoughts.

Maxwell said: "This is the best possible outcome in the circumstances – achieving a prompt sale of the business as a going concern will enable the remaining 49 stores to continue trading, safeguarding the existing jobs."

The shops saved trade under the Happit, Ellie Louise and Images brand names and include 15 in Scotland. Dunfermline-based Happit had been bought by 2nd Thoughts in 2008.