THE Ashley Reeves group of shops in Dublin have been acquired by Flairline Fashions, the Irish wholesale distribution company which specialises in women's fashions. The company is understood to have paid between £3 million and £4 million for the Ashley Reeves stores in Dundrum, Stillorgan, Rathfarnham and Blanchardstown, Lisa Perkins in Blackrock, Acquiesce in South Anne Street and the central buying office and distribution centre in Sandyford Industrial Estate. All the premises are rented. Flairline Fashions, which is run by Sean Barron and his family, and based in South William Street, Dublin 2, is also the holding company for Pamela Scott in Grafton Street.

Flairline is also a partner with businessman Michael Smurfit in the River View Racquet and Fitness Centre in Clonskeagh.