BOLTON-based Yates Group has announced that it is to withdraw from its last remaining wholesaling operation.

Yates Brothers -- a wholly-owned subsidiary -- has entered into an agreement to sell the Aussie White business to H&A Wines & Spirits Group.

The new owners will take over the marketing and distribution of the brand from January 31, 2002.

A Yates spokesperson said the agreement would provide Yates with a royalty income and also reduce the group's cost base.

YBL intends to cease acting as a wine sales agent some time during the first half of next year.