Amateur Photographer (AP) can reveal that Lee Bonniface, Country Director of UK & Ireland at Canon Consumer Imaging, will meet the multimillionaire entrepreneur at the camera maker’s European headquarters at Stockley Park, in Uxbridge, Middlesex.

The move comes a week after AP revealed that the Jessops website is set to be relaunched.

Bonniface told AP: ‘We work in a fantastic industry and despite recent news stories there are some great opportunities for manufacturers, retailers and photographers.

‘More images are being taken now than at any other time and with devices such as smartphones and cameras, it’s easy for people to get into photography in many different ways.’

He added: ‘Once they discover this joy, it is the job of the imaging industry to help them progress and show how a dedicated camera can enhance image quality and their enjoyment of photography.

‘During these difficult trading conditions we, like most industries, are facing challenges, and Jessops is a sad loss. However, there is also a huge opportunity.

‘At Canon UK we’re keen to work with partners and retailers who look to make the most of these opportunities and will support as appropriate.’

Speculation over the future of the Jessops name has been rife since Jones emerged as one of several buyers to rescue the brand.

Companies House records show that Canon lost around £7 million when Jessops went under in early January, closing its entire nationwide network of 187 stores.

Jones has so far remained tight-lipped and has yet to respond to requests for comment amid ongoing negotiations.

A Nikon UK spokesperson declined to comment on any discussions with third parties when asked whether Nikon representatives have met Peter Jones, or scheduled a meeting with him.

In January, a Nikon UK spokesperson told AP: ‘Nikon worked closely with Jessops for many years and would similarly work with any parties looking to continue the business.’

Last week, AP revealed that Canon (UK) Ltd was owed more than £16.4m when administrators were called in on 9 January.

Companies House documents showed that Canon’s security with Jessops amounted to £9.3m of the £16.4m it was owed.

Like other major suppliers, Canon had retention of title over unsold stock held by Jessops when it closed, meaning that it should receive £9.4m worth of kit, as legal owners.

However, some of the returned products, such as display models, will not be in the condition they were when first supplied to Jessops.