There are many food companies and retailers around the world that specialise in “local” or “ethnic” produce and who have emerged as a result of the growing demand for local dishes and foods from expatriated communities.

In the last three years alone, companies such as Prada, Bulgari, Valentino, Salvatore Ferragamo and Tod’s have either been linked to an IPO, have actually listed or have had external investors acquire some or all of their shares. The most recent company linked to either a sale or a possible IPO is Versace.

Seven years after Foxtons was first reported to be considering a stock market listing, has the London estate agency now come full circle to revist the idea?

Reports have suggested private equity investors Blackstone and Lion Capital could be considering refilling their glasses with a possible acquisition of Lucozade and Ribena.

As high street banks still seem reluctant to lend, businesses are turning increasingly to crowdfunding to meet their cash needs.