Woolworths sued in pick 'n' mix row

A LEGAL dust-up is looming at the pick 'n' mix counter after Blue Bird toffee maker Ashbury Confectionery issued a writ against Woolworths and the High Street retailer threatened to hit back.

Ashbury claims it is owed £687,000 plus interest - now £23,000 and increasing by the day - over non-payment for a pick 'n' mix delivery.

David Zulman, managing director of Northamptonshirebased Ashbury, said: 'Woolworths is one of our biggest customers. We are confident this matter will resolved in due course to the satisfaction of both parties.'

However, Woolworths is about to respond with a writ of its own.

A spokeswoman said Woolworths was refusing to pay and is countersuing Ashbury for delivering goods that it claims were not up to the standard.

Zulman, whose products include the Ashbury, Needlers, Blue Bird and Jersey brands, rejects this.

Ashbury makes millions of

caramels, toffees, truffles and jellies every day at its automated 12,000 sq ft warehouse facility in Corby.

It also supplies Asda, Tesco and Sainsbury.

Private equity firm Apax walked away from a potential bid for Woolworths last week.