Topshop owner inks deal with X Factor creator

Topshop owner Sir Philip Green is planning to use celebrities created by Simon Cowell's reality television empire to promote his fashion lines. According tot The Times, Green stated he was "in discussions with the people he works with." Sources have stated the new vehicle would give Mr Cowell, creator of Britain's Got Talent, The X Factor and American Idol, greater control over his own work and roll out the formats across the globe. Sir Philip would be able to gain merchandising opportunities and new media to reach many more potential customers. Sir Philip would add his business acumen as the owner of BHS and Topshop.

Industry sources said the plan could mirror the highly successful Disney model, which combines a huge retail franchise with a film and television operation. Sir Philip has been traveling to Los Angeles to advise Mr Cowell on a new contract for American Idol.

Sir Philip is already looking at business opportunities in the US. He opened a flagship Topshop store in New York this year and he hopes to roll out up to 15 stores in America. Among the options is using stars from television ventures as teh face of Sir Philip's clothing brands. A range of designed and modeled by Kate Moss has already been a success for Topshop.

Image: Cowell & Green