Sports Direct hits back

SPORTS Direct is trying to placate critics by opening up its annual meeting at its headquarters next month.

Mike Ashley’s Sports Direct has been heavily criticised over working practices at its warehouse in Shirebrook in Derbyshire and its poor treatment of its employees. And a parliamentary probe has accused Ashley of Victorian workhouse conditions. The company has now announced an open day for anybody who wishes to attend its HQ in Derbyshire, from 11am on September 7, to coincide with its annual general meeting.

Shareholders are backing a resolution calling for an independent review of how Sports Direct deals with its staff.

The company’s shares rose 1.5pc, or 4.6p, to 310p.