Comet comeback probed by Deloitte amid trademark concern

Administrator investigates Clive Coombes' attempts to revive brand name

An attempt to revive high street electronics brand Comet is being investigated by Deloitte, according to reports, which claim the administrator is assessing whether the resurrection tramples on trademark rules.

Earlier this week, tycoon Clive Coombes – who initially made failed bids for the ailing firm when it fell into administration – announced he was looking to bring back the Comet name as part of a new plan.

"I merged two companies under my control: Meridian Wholesale Ltd and Comet Electrical Distributors Ltd, rebranded them, and formed ‘Meridian Comet'," he explained on his website.

Coombes plans to open 80 new stores across southern England and the Midlands, after claiming to have been disgusted when liquidators took control of Comet last year.

But according to Retail Week, Coombes' masterplan has hit a snag after administrator Deloitte began an investigation into the revival. Deloitte is considering whether Coombes' Meridian Comet venture infringes its trademark, the report said.

Deloitte and Meridian Comet were both unavailable to comment when contacted by CRN.

Comet fell into administration last autumn, which saw its 240 nationwide stores close and more than 6,000 staff lose their jobs. Following the retailer's demise, its suppliers scrambled to recover unsold stock which they provided to the firm.