| Mid-1980s |
Mark Brafman, Les Lucy, and Alan Simons co-found Mark One. The business model is focused on operating as a discount womenswear fashion retailer, targeting the high-volume value sector of the United Kingdom retail market.
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| February 1996 |
Following a period of financial instability and administration, Mark One is purchased by Philip Green. Under Green’s tenure, the brand undergoes a strategic identity shift, transitioning into MK One with a modernized logo and refreshed store aesthetic.
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| July 2003 |
Philip Green divests the majority of his holding in MK One. He sells approximately 90% of the company to Elaine McPherson (Managing Director) and David Thompson (Finance Director), while maintaining a 10% minority stake.
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| November 2004 |
The Icelandic investment firm Baugur completes a full acquisition of the MK One chain for approximately £55 million. At the time of sale, the portfolio consists of 177 operational stores.
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| 2007 |
The company reports substantial fiscal strain, recording annual operating losses of £17.4 million. This deficit reflects intensifying competition within the value fashion market.
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| May 2008 |
Retail restructuring specialist Hilco acquires a majority stake in the 170-store chain. However, within weeks, Hilco is forced to appoint Deloitte as administrators.
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| June 2008 |
Original founder Mark Brafman orchestrates a return to the business, purchasing the company back from administrators via his vehicle, Jet Star Retail.
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| October 2008 |
Mark Brafman exits the business, and Bali Singh assumes control. The new leadership fails to secure necessary funding, and unpaid suppliers trigger insolvency proceedings.
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| 20 November 2008 |
MK One, operating 125 stores, is officially placed into administration under Leonard Curtis. This development places approximately 1,400 jobs at immediate risk.
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| 25 November 2008 |
Administrators successfully negotiate the sale of approximately 80 MK One stores to Internacionale Retail. The MK One head office in Acton is permanently closed.
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| May 2009 |
Following the acquisition, Internacionale completes the rebranding of all 80 stores under their own name. This marks the official end of MK One as a trading brand on the British high street.
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