DM Private Equity chairman Phillip Cook is believed to have made an offer for some or all of the 150 Unwins off-licences that Thresher did not buy before Christmas.
But it is thought a mystery bidder has tabled a fresh bid for all 150 outlets despite speculation the rest of the chain would be broken up.
Wine Cellar, Whittals Wines and Oddbins are thought to have been interested in acquiring some of the outlets.
References: The Daily Telegraph 06/01/06 page B2
