News roundup--Figleaves and Ocado prepare to float, more

Lingerie etailer Figleaves has "received several bid approaches and has hired GP Bullhound, a corporate-finance firm, to advise it", writes the Times. The 11-year-old firm is on "the verge of becoming profitable for the first time" and a deal will likely value Figleaves at £40 million.

In another IPO story, this time from the Telegraph, Ocado is expected to storm into the FTSE 250 when it floats on the stock exchange in May. The online grocery retailer is believed to be valued at more than £1 billion.

Electronic, electrical, and industrial distributor Electrocomponents saw UK sales rise 5 percent, and international business grow by 12 percent in January 2010, compared with the same period last year. The Times carries a profile of the business and a Q&A with its chief executive Ian Mason.

Bookseller Waterstone’s admits “terrible mistake” in recommending a book about a serial killers to children who are “reluctant, struggling or dyslexic readers”. The recommendation appeared in Waterstone’s Guide to Kids’ Books, which is available in stores and via mail order, reports The Times.

The Scotsman interviews Clare Thommen, owner of lingerie retailer Boudiche.