The UK government is evaluating a cost-effective rail option known as ‘HS2-light’, which may optimise travel between Birmingham and Manchester.This initiative is part of a comprehensive strategy to address the country’s infrastructure requirements.The proposed route could potentially reduce construction costs by up to 40% while still easing congestion on the West Coast mainline.The review has gained momentum following recent confirmations about the HS2 terminus at London’s Euston station.A final decision is anticipated after an imminent three-year spending review.The UK government is currently deliberating a proposal for a cost-efficient rail alternative called ‘HS2-light’. This consideration comes amid broader efforts to address…
Author: Dave Antrobus
The traditional partnership model for solicitors is waning, according to the chief executive of a private equity-owned law firm, who claims unprecedented opportunities have arisen post-takeover.Nelsons, an East Midlands legal practice, recently celebrated its one-year anniversary under the ownership of Lawfront, backed by private equity firm Blixt. Lawfront, which aims to construct a £150 million national group, has already acquired four regional firms, marking significant progress towards its goal.Stewart Vandermark, Nelsons’ chief executive, detailed how the firm had sought growth before the COVID-19 pandemic and noted that this intention has only intensified as the market evolves. He explained that aligning…
The Frasers Group is solidifying its position as a dominant retail and property force in the UK.Recent acquisitions include the Princesshay Shopping Centre in Exeter, Fremlin Walk in Kent, and the Olympus Centre in Gloucester.CEO Michael Murray emphasises the group’s commitment to revitalising high streets and enhancing retail experiences.Property purchases align with the group’s strategy to support its luxury and sports retail businesses.Recent acquisitions are valued at £91m, with Frasers pursuing diverse locations.Frasers Group, traditionally renowned for investing in retail brands, is now emerging as a significant entity in the UK property market. The group has recently acquired prominent shopping…
Primark is making a significant move into the American market with its first Manhattan store opening soon.The upcoming store will be located at Herald Square, becoming Primark’s flagship in the USA.Once opened, it will be Primark’s 11th store in New York State, marking a milestone in its ongoing expansion.The store, spanning 54,000 square feet, will offer an array of fashion, homewares, and beauty products across four floors.This expansion comes as part of Primark’s ambitious plan to establish 60 stores across the US over five years.Primark is poised to deepen its footprint in the United States with the announcement of its…
THG has announced the appointment of Amy Fisher as the new CEO of Beauty Brands, marking a significant leadership change. The decision reflects THG’s focus on strengthening its beauty division amidst a competitive market. Amy Fisher brings extensive experience from prominent beauty and lifestyle companies. Lookfantastic, a THG brand, has also launched its first permanent store in Altrincham. These strategic moves underscore THG’s commitment to expanding its physical retail presence.THG, known for owning Cult Beauty and Lookfantastic, has appointed Amy Fisher as its new CEO for Beauty Brands. Fisher’s appointment is a strategic move by THG to bolster its leadership…
Steven Newdall has unveiled his new law firm, Thomas Harvey Solicitors, marking a significant shift in the legal landscape.The firm operates out of Leeds and Manchester, focusing on personal and commercial dispute resolution.Newdall brings over 30 years of experience, previously serving as managing partner at Levi Solicitors.Thomas Harvey Solicitors aims to offer flexible, client-centred services, including virtual consultations.The firm addresses modern client needs with flexible funding and scheduling options.In a notable development in the legal sector, Steven Newdall has inaugurated Thomas Harvey Solicitors. This new boutique law firm is strategically located in Leeds and Manchester, and it is set to…
In spite of the massive success of the Barbie film, Mattel’s UK sales have not improved.Mattel’s turnover decreased to £145.5m from £162.4m in 2022, according to recent reports.The company’s pre-tax profits slightly increased from £8.2m to £10.4m.Challenging macro-economic conditions have impacted Mattel’s quarterly results and sales.The Barbie movie’s success did not significantly influence early 2023 sales despite later boosts.In spite of the widespread success of the Barbie movie in 2023, Mattel’s UK sales did not experience the anticipated uplift. Recent reports have revealed a decline in the company’s turnover to £145.5 million for the year, down from £162.4 million in…
The well-known YouTube group, the Sidemen, have inaugurated their second physical store in Birmingham’s Bullring & Grand Central shopping centre. This new outlet strengthens Hammerson’s retail strategy by incorporating fresh and dynamic retail concepts.The store opening took place on 4 October and has quickly gained attention due to the Sidemen’s established online popularity.Located in the Midlands, this is the Sidemen’s first SDMN clothing store in the region, offering a contemporary shopping experience.The expansive 4,500 square foot store showcases a collection of unisex streetwear and exclusive merchandise, including a collaborative line with Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.SDMN Clothing’s managing director, Matt Peters,…
Aldi is investing over £30m in dairy farming through its partnership with Arla.The investment will span over the next three and a half years, ending in mid-2027.Partnership aims at enhancing sustainability and animal welfare in the dairy sector.Aldi expands support to cover 100% of Arla’s fresh milk supply, aiding over 150 farms.The initiative supports Arla’s FarmAhead Customer Partnership to reduce on-farm emissions.Aldi has announced a substantial investment of over £30 million aimed at supporting dairy farmers through a strategic partnership with Arla, the United Kingdom’s largest dairy cooperative. This funding is set to roll out over the next three and…
Zapp, a rapid grocery delivery service based in London, has undergone substantial changes to address financial challenges.In 2023, Zapp reduced its workforce by 90%, decreasing staff from 2,417 to 260, as part of a significant cost-cutting strategy.The company withdrew from international markets and concentrated its efforts on affluent areas in London.These measures led to a 75% reduction in pre-tax losses from £91.9 million in 2022 to £23 million in 2023.Zapp’s revenue increased by 37%, bolstered by strategic operational changes and a focus on larger, more expensive orders.In a drastic move to curb expenses, Zapp, the London-based rapid grocery delivery startup,…