Engineering services provider, MESB Bhd, is looking at the acquisition of three potential apparel brands to strengthen its retail business division. Executive director Yam Kin Lum said the company had set aside RM5m from the disposal of its telecommunication engineering company, Dynamic Communication Link Sdn Bhd, to grow its retail business over the next two years.

• "We hope complete at least the acquisition of one brand in the current financial year ending March 31," he said. He said the new acquisition is expected to contribute 15% to the company's revenue in the next financial year.
• On the outlook for the retail sector, he said MESB is cautiously optimistic over it this year, due to an expected general election. "The rise in civil servants wages does give some breather to the industry as it is expected to increase domestic consumption," Yam added. (BT)