Author: Dave Antrobus

Nike has faced significant challenges, leading to the withdrawal of its full-year forecast as sales drop.A 10% decrease in first-quarter revenues has impacted the sportswear giant’s financial outlook.Nike’s direct-to-consumer sales have diminished by 13%, and wholesale revenues fell by 8%.The company’s European and North American markets have experienced notable declines amidst intense industry competition.Nike is implementing cost-saving strategies and product streamlining to address these challenges.Nike’s decision to withdraw its full-year forecast marks a crucial moment for the company following a challenging start to its fiscal year 2025. The decision comes as first-quarter revenues decreased by 10%, affecting the company’s financial…

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Schofield Sweeney is enhancing its commitment to fostering new legal professionals by welcoming a new group of solicitor apprentices and trainees.The firm received a record number of applications this year, promoting social mobility through its training programmes.This marks the firm’s second cohort of solicitor apprentices, selected from over 140 applicants for a six-year programme.The new apprentices will gain experience in various departments, reflecting the firm’s diverse legal expertise.Three new trainees have also joined the firm, underscoring its dedication to nurturing young legal talent.Schofield Sweeney, renowned for its commitment to workforce diversity and development, has embraced a new cadre of legal…

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AO World plans to acquire MusicMagpie in a move to expand its tech market presence.The acquisition is valued at approximately £9.98 million and is set for completion in early 2025.MusicMagpie’s board has shown unanimous support for the acquisition.The deal aims to enhance AO World’s consumer tech offerings and sustainability goals.MusicMagpie is expected to benefit from AO’s supply channels, boosting operational efficiency.AO World is poised to acquire MusicMagpie, a second-hand tech retailer, for £9.98 million. This strategic move is designed to increase AO World’s influence within the mobile and consumer technology markets. The deal is projected to be finalised by early…

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JD Sports has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth, defying market challenges.The sportswear giant reported a 5.2% increase in sales, reaching £5bn.Its pre-tax profit rose to £405m, showcasing strong financial health.CEO Régis Schultz credits a multi-brand strategy for this success.Major expansion plans in North America signal future growth.JD Sports has showcased its ability to thrive in what it described as a ‘challenging and volatile market.’ For the first half ending 3 August, the company reported a 5.2% increase in sales, achieving a total of £5 billion. This impressive growth comes alongside a rise in pre-tax profit to £405 million, underlining the…

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Vision International Holdings turns a profit after previous losses, showcasing a significant turnaround.The historic Lewis’s brand plays a crucial role in boosting Vision International’s financial results.Despite a slight decline in sales, the company reports a notable pre-tax profit for 2023.TJ Hughes relocates its flagship store and continues to expand across the UK amidst challenging conditions.The group takes strategic measures to control costs and leverage market opportunities despite economic challenges.In an impressive recovery, Vision International Holdings, the parent company of Liverpool’s renowned discount retailer TJ Hughes, reported a pre-tax profit of £430,000 for 2023. This marks a substantial improvement from the…

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Fittingsco, founded by ex-Team GB swimmer Dan Briggs, gains NPIF backing.The investment supports Fittingsco’s expansion and stock increase plans.Founded in 2017, the firm markets furniture fittings from handles to lights.Dan Briggs combines athletic tenacity with business acumen to grow Fittingsco.The support from NPIF aids SMEs in Northern England to achieve growth.Fittingsco, the brainchild of former Team GB swimmer Dan Briggs, has successfully secured investment from the Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II (NPIF II) to facilitate its expansion. Established in 2017, the company operates out of Chadderton and specialises in a range of furniture fittings, including hinges, drawer systems, and LED…

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Marking a milestone, over 350 women King’s Counsel (KCs) and judges assembled to commemorate the 75th anniversary of women’s appointments as King’s Counsel in England and Wales. This momentous gathering highlighted the journey of women in the legal field and their ongoing contributions.Despite progress, women remain underrepresented in top legal positions; however, significant strides have been made since the first women took silk in 1949 under King George VI.The Judicial Diversity Forum emphasises the importance of fostering an inclusive environment for current and prospective judges, recognising the essential pipeline of talent.Speakers at the event, including Lady Chief Justice Baroness Carr…

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A magistrate received a formal warning after a conflict with a neighbour over a dog.Jean Banford of the Cheshire bench used her magistrate status during a heated dispute.Banford emphasised her legal knowledge, stating the dog could be destroyed.The Judicial Conduct Investigations Office deemed her conduct inappropriate.A formal warning was issued to maintain the magistracy’s integrity.A magistrate from the Cheshire bench, Jean Banford, has received a formal warning following an incident involving a dispute with her neighbour over a dog. During the argument, Banford referred to her position as a magistrate and implied that the neighbour’s dog could be destroyed, which…

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The launch of a new 5G Immersive Lab in Newcastle marks a significant step forward in digital innovation.The facility, located in Eldon Square, aims to support firms in embracing new technologies.Science Minister Sir Chris Bryant highlighted the lab’s potential to transform various industries.The lab will enable businesses to explore and develop 5G applications and innovations.This initiative is part of a broader strategy to foster economic growth through technology.A pioneering facility dedicated to enhancing digital innovation has opened in Newcastle, known as the 5G Immersive Lab. Located in the city’s Eldon Square, this initiative aims to provide businesses with the tools…

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Gousto makes a significant leadership change appointing Murray Lambell to enhance customer focus.Lambell brings extensive experience from eBay, where he served in key roles including leading the UK business.His appointment follows Gousto’s recent return to profitability, aiming to delve deeper into the mainstream market.Murray will succeed Sally Matthews, transitioning to chief strategy officer to focus on long-term growth.Gousto’s CEO, Timo Boldt, emphasises Murray’s alignment with the company culture and customer dedication.Gousto has announced a pivotal addition to its leadership team, appointing Murray Lambell as the new Chief Customer Officer (CCO). Lambell’s extensive tenure at eBay, which spanned from 2008 to…

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