HELENSBURGH'S MSP has urged entrepreneur Mike Ashley to give clarity to staff working at the Jenners store at Loch Lomond after his purchase of the House of Fraser department store chain.

Mr Ashley acquired all 59 UK stores under the high street chain’s umbrella, including Jenners at Loch Lomond Shores, the brand and all stock in the business, in a £90 million deal just hours after House of Fraser was placed into administration.

Ms Baillie said: “The news that a deal has been struck to save the company is welcome, but Mike Ashley must now provide these workers with clarity.

“Mr Ashley must make saving as many jobs as possible his top priority and he must also guarantee that he will not usher in the same unfortunate and inappropriate working practices at his Sports Direct firm into department stores across Britain and here at Balloch.

“The Jenners store at Lomond Shores is a flagship and a real jewel in the crown for us locally.”

Like other retailers, House of Fraser has been stung by soaring costs and falling consumer spending power.

Damon Scott, chief executive of Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “It is not yet clear what the plans are following the acquisition of the company and its brand by Sports Direct, but I believe the Loch Lomond store was one of the more profitable outlets and, coupled with the heritage and strength of the Jenners and House of Fraser brand, I would hope it would remain an attractive proposition as a going concern.”

Speaking about the deal, Mr Ashley told media: “We will do our best to keep as many stores open as possible. It is vital that we restore the right level of ongoing relationships with the luxury brands.

“My ambition is to transform House of Fraser into the Harrods of the High Street.”

Shopworkers’ trade union Usdaw has welcomed a swift end to House of Fraser being in administration.

Dave Gill, the union’s national officer, said: “It is crucial that staff are treated with dignity and fairness through the transfer process and that is best done by the new owner recognising Usdaw as the trade union for House of Fraser staff.

“We are seeking urgent talks with Sports Direct and, in the meantime, we are providing our members with the support, advice and representation they require at this very difficult time.”