UK online grocer Ocado has hinted that its long-mooted flotation could come after the General Election in the country this year.

Speculation that the retailer, in which Waitrose parent the John Lewis Partnership owns a 30% stake, will launch an IPO this year has swirled around the market since late last year.

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However, details of an exact timetable for the float have not been revealed, although finance director Andrew Bracey told Reuters that the business would like to list on “the other side of the election”.

A spokesperson for Ocado declined to comment further when contacted by just-food today (18 March).

Last week, John Lewis told just-food that it was “supportive” of Ocado’s plans despite reports that Waitrose is planning to launch its own home-delivery service within two years.

Ocado delivers Waitrose products and the agreement between the two companies is set for renewal in 2013.

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