29th Apr 2013 - 15:37
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Abstract
Private equity firm Bridgepoint, which owns lunchtime favourite Pret a Manager, is ready to buy brasserie restaurant chain Côte, according to reports.
Cote, which has experienced years of rapid growth, has been on the market since Autumn 2012.
Bridgepoint is reported to have offered around £100 million making it the frontrunner in the deal. The company already owns Pret, Fat Face and Hobbycraft.
The deal would allow Cote owner Richard Caring to focus on higher-end restaurants, including Le Caprice and The Ivy.
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