Retailer Majestic Wine has changed hands in a deal which will keep its network of stores open - including branches in Kent.

The company has outlets in Canterbury and Tenterden.

It announced in March it was likely to close as many as 140 of its 190 stores as part of a major restructuring which would see more focus into its Naked Wines online subscription division.

But it has now been sold to US firm Fortress Investment Group - a move which will keep all its shops open.

The company also confirmed that previous boss, John Colley, had rejoined the business.

The business employs over 1,000 highly trained specialist staff and had annual sales of over £300m last year, including its commercial on-trade and French divisions.

The sale has been completed with funds managed by affiliates of Fortress, who are targeting further ambitious growth for the 40 year old brand.

It says it is also looking to protect itself against any problems caused by Brexit by ordering in an extra 2million bottles ahead of the exit date.

Mr Colley said: "The key to Majestic’s future is simple. It’s the service our people provide, backed up by a range you simply cannot get anywhere else.

"That connection isn’t what it should be - so we need to get the wines back in that our customers and staff love first. That isn’t rocket science.

"Fortress and I see a huge opportunity in the UK over the next few years, and see Majestic as perfectly placed to take advantage."

And he suggested Kent wines could cash in on the growing popularity of English sparkling wine this Christmas.

He added: "I predict there’ll be record numbers of English corks being popped this December."

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