Entrepreneur Tim Waterstone yesterday bowed out of the race to acquire Hamleys.
Mr Waterstone pulled out after conceding the famous London toy store to a higher offer from rival bidders, including the shop's managers.
Mr Waterstone confirmed his bid vehicle, Children's Stores, had decided not to pursue its interest. It will now sell its shares to rival Soldier, formed by Icelandic retailer Baugur and a Hamleys management team.
The news signals the end of a month-long saga which saw Soldier twice raise its offer in an effort to see off interest from Mr Waterstone.
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