Sock Shop goes into administration

The Sock Shop chain has collapsed into administration for the third time. Insolvency specialist Poppleton & Appleby has been appointed administrators after dismal Christmas trading proved the final straw for the struggling chain. Sock Shop, which was founded in 1983 by Sophie Mirman, floated on the stock market in 1987 and at one point had 150 outlets. It currently has 13 stores and employs 60 staff. The chain will continue to trade while the administrators attempt to find a buyer. The group was part of Harris Watson, which also owns the Viyella women's clothing brand.